MADRID - Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang said on Wednesday that China sincerely hopes Spain and the whole of Europe will achieve steady growth and sustained prosperity.

Li made the remarks during a breakfast meeting with Chinese and Spanish businesspersons.

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China and Spain, as well as China and Europe, share common interests and aspirations in tackling challenges, promoting economic growth and maintaining global economic stability, Li said.

Therefore, the Chinese vice premier added, they should strengthen exchanges and dialogue, expand the scope of cooperation and seek common development.

Li also said China backs a series of economic and financial austerity measures adopted by the Spanish government, and is willing to work with the Spanish side to seek various effective forms of cooperation.

Later in the day, Li will meet Spanish King Juan Carlos, Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero and Foreign Minister Trinidad Jimenez.

Li arrived in Madrid on Tuesday for a three-day official visit to Spain, the first leg of his three-nation European tour, which will also take him to Germany and Britain.