VALLETTA: China and the European Union (EU) should strengthen dialogue and deepen cooperation as the two sides are faced with common challenges amid the financial crisis, Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping said on Saturday.

Xi made the remarks during his meeting with Acting Maltese President George Hyzler in Valletta.

China appreciates the efforts made by the Maltese government to promote the development of Sino-EU relations, he said, adding that Beijing hopes that the Maltese government will continue to play an active role in pushing forward relations.