Li Peng, chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), said that the NPC will continuously strengthen its cooperation with the South African Parliament so as to enhance bilateral legislative exchanges.
Li made the remarks Tuesday in a meeting with Baleka Mbete, deputy speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa.
Extending a welcome, Li asked Mbete to convey his regards to Speaker Frene Ginwala.
He said the friendship between the two peoples dates back to ancient times, and since the two countries forged diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have developed well, with increased cooperation in various fields.
He noted that both China and South Africa are developing countries, and they share wide-ranging common interest rather than fundamental conflicts of interest.
Leaders of the two countries have reached consensus on the joint establishment of a bilateral long-term, steady, sincere, friendly, overall, cooperative and constructive partnership oriented to the 21st century, stated Li.
He said China will make practical efforts along with the South African side to enrich this relationship.
China is delighted to see South Africa's remarkable achievements in promoting national reconciliation, economic development and the people's living standard, as well as the country's positive role in international affairs, Li said.
Briefing the visitors on the NPC's legislation work, Li said China attaches equal importance to legislation, inspection of law enforcement and law knowledge popularization.
He said Mbete's current visit to China is bound to further the mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and the two parliaments, and play a positive role in promoting bilateral relations.
Mbete voiced her congratulations on China's accession to the World Trade Organization, and spoke highly of China's assistance and support in the past few years for the African people's liberation and development.
She held that South Africa and China have many similarities, hoping for further exchanges and cooperation between the two parliaments.
She also briefed Li on the South African National Assembly and its women's work.
(Xinhua News Agency November 21, 2001)
