PYONGYANG, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Kim Yong-nam, president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), met with visiting Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu on Thursday to discuss bilateral relations.

    Kim spoke highly of the traditional friendship between the two nations, saying his country was willing to work with China to further deepen bilateral relations and maintain regional peace and stability.

    Hui said China was happy to see the sound development of bilateral ties in the new century and was willing to push it to a higher level.

    Jo Myong-rok, DPRK first vice chairman of the National Defense Commission, also attended the meeting.

    Hui also held talks with DPRK Premier Pak Bong-ju on the same day.

    Hui arrived in Pyongyang on Monday to attend activities celebrating the 45th anniversary of the signing of the Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance Treaty between China and the DPRK. Enditem