On January 7, the Chinese Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Yang Honglin met with the Saudi General President of Youth Welfare, also as Chairman of the Olympic Committee, H.R.H. Prince Sultan Bin Fahd Bin Abdul Aziz. They exchanged views on strengthening Sino-Saudi cooperation in the areas of youth and sports.

  H.E. Mr. Yang denoted that the Sino-Saudi relations had experienced rapid development with tangible results in recent years. China attached great importance to the role Saudi Arabia played in both regional and international affairs and its influence in both the Islamic and Arab World. He pointed out that the foundation of the Sino-Saudi strategic friendship and cooperation would be further enhanced through deepening ties in the areas of youth and sports. He also expressed his welcome to Saudi Arabia to attend the 2008 Olympic Games.

  H.R.H. Prince Sultan welcomed H.E. Mr. Yang Honglin's arrival as the new Chinese Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He denoted that Saudi Arabia viewed China as a true friend and a vital partner. He spoke highly of the role China played in maintaining regional stability and world peace and the outstanding achievements made by China in modernizing its national economy. He expected to deepen the cooperation between the Saudi General Presidency of Youth Welfare and its Chinese counterparts while lauded the excellent preparation for the Beijing Olympic Games. Lastly, he expressed his belief in the consummation of the Beijing Olympic Games.