China and El Salvador kick-started the negotiation on a free trade agreement between the two countries on Wednesday, according to China's Ministry of Commerce.

Chinese Vice-Minister of Commerce Wang Shouwen and Salvadoran Minister of Economy Maria Luisa Hayem Breve made the announcement via video link.

Since establishing diplomatic relations, China and El Salvador have made significant progress in various areas of economic cooperation. Bilateral trade has substantially increased, showcasing the resilience and growth potential of the economic partnership between the two nations, the ministry said in a statement.

The launch of negotiations for the free trade pact is expected to further enhance the positive momentum of bilateral economic and trade cooperation, elevate the level of pragmatic cooperation, and bring greater benefits to the people of both countries, the ministry added.

By Wang Keju