Catalan president meets with the vice president of the National People's Assembly of China

The president of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, has held a meeting with the vice president of China's legislative body, the National People's Assembly of China, Wu Weihua, one of the cloests confidants of Zhao Leji, speaker of the Assembly.

The meeting, which took place at 10.30 am Chinese time on Friday, was held in the Great Hall of the People, where the parliament sessions are held and where the National Congress of the Communist Party meets.

The Great Hall is in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, one of the most emblematic points of the city.

During the meeting, Illa conveyed Catalonia's intention to "strengthen cooperation" to Weihua, as well as reinforce political, economic, and cultural relations.

The Socialist leader also indicated that he aims to do so in conjunction with the Spanish government and the European Union.

In addition, he highlighted that Catalonia is aware of "the important role of China in today's world."

Illa also pointed out the economic and industrial "potential" of Catalonia and the work that his government are doing to strengthen its presence in Asia.

For his part, Weihua recalled that Illa met with the President of the Assembly, Zhao Leji, in November, and assured that Leji took away "a deep impression" of the welcome he received in Catalonia.

This meeting was Illa's first on his trip to China which will last until August 1, where he will visit Beijing, Hefei, Wuhu, and Shanghai.

Following the meeting, Illa announced plans to open a new Catalan government office in China.