The giant steel, petrochemical and papermaking projects under construction in Zhanjiang are showing great potential for cooperation between the city and Europe, consuls-general of European countries in Guangzhou told China Daily.

"Italy is a traditional powerhouse in these sectors," said Benedetto Latteri, consul-general of Italy, adding that the country has the largest crude oil processing capacity and the second-largest steel output in Europe.

"There are reasons to believe that tremendous cooperation opportunities in these new and emerging sectors are waiting for us (Italy and Zhanjiang) to explore together."