BEIJING, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Vice President Xi Jinping met here on Tuesday with Fakhruddin Ahmed, chief advisor of the Bangladeshi Caretaker Government, and called on both countries to develop their relationship.

    "China will make concerted efforts with Bangladesh to push the bilateral partnership to a higher level," Xi said.

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (R) shakes hands with Fakhruddin Ahmed, Chief Advisor of Bangladeshi Caretaker Government, in Beijing, China, Sept. 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    Xi highlighted the growth of bilateral relations since the two nations forged diplomatic ties 33 years ago and expressed appreciation for Bangladesh's firm support for China on issues such as Taiwan, human rights and Tibet.

    Fakhruddin, who is to attend the closing ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games on Wednesday, offered congratulations on the success of the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics, noting that the friendship between Bangladesh and China would stand the test of time.

    Bangladesh is willing to join with China to promote bilateral, friendly cooperation, Fakhruddin said.

    At the invitation of the Chinese government, Fakhruddin arrived here on Monday for a four-day visit.