China would “sincerely welcome” Portugal’s participation in the “One Belt, One Road” initiative, said Chinese Ambassador to Portugal, Huang Songfu.

The Chinese embassy said in a statement it had held a seminar on the subject last week.

The “One Belt, One Road” initiative refers to the China-led Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Maritime Silk Road, both concepts proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping to strengthen China’s relations and co-operation with other countries and regions.

Mr Huang was quoted saying both nations could complement their advantages by taking parting in the initiative, achieving “mutual benefits”.

The fact that Portugal joined the China-led Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank as a founding member shows the “confidence” that Portugal has in the co-operation between China and Europe, Mr Huang added.