Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, April 29, 2019. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz in Beijing on Monday.

Xi said that the two sides should adhere to equal treatment and mutual respect and constantly promote bilateral relations to a new height.

China welcomes the Austrian side to actively participate in the joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative and "16+1 Cooperation", Xi said, adding that China appreciates Austria's open attitude towards China's investment.

Xi said China hopes Austria can continue to play its role and actively support and advance the development of China-Europe ties.

Kurz said Austria regards China as a strategic partner and is committed to strengthening strategic relations with China.

Austria firmly supports multilateralism and free trade and is willing to contribute to deepening Europe-China relations, Kurz added.