On August 30, 2007, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Kong Quan met with Petra Roth, the mayor of Frankfurt of Germany.

Kong spoke highly of China-Germany ties, as well as the sound cooperation between the city of Frankfurt and China, and appreciated Roth's efforts in promoting China-Germany ties, especially the cooperation between Frankfurt and the cities of Beijing and Guangzhou. Kong also expressed the hope that Frankfurt will offer convenience and support for Chinese businesses to invest in the city. Roth hailed the enormous achievements in China's economic and social development, adding that China's development has provided an opportunity to Frankfurt and Germany at large. Her city attaches great importance to ties with China, Roth said, adding that she welcomes more investment from Chinese businesses, for which the city of Frankfurt will do whatever it can to create favorable framework conditions.

The city of Frankfurt is a well-known financial center and an important transportation hub of Germany and Europe as well. Guangzhou and Frankfurt established relations of friendly cities in April 1998. There are currently 113 weekly flights between China and Frankfurt and four of China's "big five" state-owned commercial banks have opened branches in Frankfurt. The number of Chinese-funded companies in Frankfurt and its neighboring areas is about 300.

Roth is visiting China from Aug. 29 to Sep. 1 at the invitation of China's State Press and Publication Administration (SPPA) and the People's Government of Guangzhou Municipality. During the visit, she will attend the opening ceremonies of Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) and Guangzhou Fair.