Brussels, 16/09/2005 (Agence Europe) - A delegation from the China Association of Mayors, which was led by the Chinese minister for Construction, Wang Guangtao, visited the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) in Brussels on Tuesday, to explore the possibilities of developing bilateral cooperation. Talks also focused on sustainable urban development. "Every year, between 13 and 18 million Chinese people leave the countryside for the cities. This rural exodus, which will continue for another 20 years, brings enormous pressure to bear on our cities in terms of urbanisation, and also the public services to be provided. Furthermore, China is going through a period of enormous growth in traffic: our cities must develop their public transport services if they are to save energy and protect the atmosphere", explained Mr Wang. The Chinese Mayors, who have already established contacts with cities in Germany, the United Kingdom and France, also hope that the CEMR will help them to create links between Chinese cities and all municipalities throughout Europe, in order to exchange experience and best practice. A CEMR delegation will visit the Chinese Mayors, probably early 2006.