The leaders of Germany and China have opened an annual industrial trade fair in Hannover, vowing to further enhance their countries’ business ties.

Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao will have a private dinner Sunday before jointly touring the trade show and meeting business leaders Monday.

China is the fair’s official partner country this year, with about 500 of the 5,000 exhibitors coming from there.

Merkel said both countries have strong manufacturing industries that can further enhance their cooperation, boosting bilateral trade beyond the (EURO)144 billion ($190 billion) reached last year.

Wen said China remains committed to strong bilateral trade between the countries’ companies to strengthen its industry and spur further growth.