Jia Qinglin (L), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, shakes hands with Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, in Harare, capital of Zimbabwe, April 21, 2007. (Xinhua Photo/Huang Jingwen) Photo Gallery>>>

    HARARE, April 21 (Xinhua) -- Top Chinese Political advisor Jia Qinglin said here Saturday that China will work with Zimbabwe to deepen bilateral reciprocal cooperation in economy, trade and other fields.

    Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, made the remarks at a meeting with Zimbabwean President Robert Gabriel Mugabe.

    He spoke highly of the smooth growth of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields on the basis of mutual benefit.

    Jia, who arrived here Friday on an official good-will visit as guest of the Zimbabwean parliament, said the Chinese side values bilateral traditional friendship and will maintain bilateral contacts at various levels.

    The Chinese side will join the Zimbabwean side in implementing the achievements made during the Beijing summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, especially the eight measures on supporting the development of African countries announced by Chinese President Hu Jintao, said Jia.

    He said China appreciates Zimbabwe's firm adherence to the one-China policy.

    He said the CPPCC National Committee is ready to strengthen exchanges with the Zimbabwean parliament to make contributions to the further development of bilateral friendship and cooperation.

    Mugabe reviewed the deep friendship between the two peoples that was forged during Zimbabwe's struggle for national independence.

    He said facts have proven that the two countries are sincere and cordial friends as bilateral friendship and cooperation have been continuously enhanced since the two countries set updiplomatic ties 27 years ago.

    After the meeting, Jia and Mugabe attended a signing ceremony for four bilateral cooperation documents including an economic and technical cooperation agreement between the two governments.

    They also attended the handover ceremony of Chinese agricultural machinery and equipment.

    Zimbabwe is the third leg of Jia's visit to four African countries, which has already taken him to Tunisia and Ghana, and will also take him to Kenya.