BEIJING, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- China will work with Argentina to push forward the bilateral strategic partnership, according to a top Chinese legislator here on Tuesday.

    Wu Bangguo, the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee chairman, made the remarks in a meeting with Provisional President of Argentine Senate Jose Pampuro who was here for the Beijing Paralympics closing ceremony.

Wu Bangguo(R), China's National People's Congress Standing Committee chairman, shakes hands with Provisional President of Argentine Senate Jose Pampuro at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Sept. 16, 2008. Jose Pampuro will attend the closing ceremony of the Beijing Paralympics scheduled for Wednesday. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

 

    Hailing the relations between China and Argentina, Wu said the two nations had enjoyed smooth growth in bilateral relations since forging diplomatic ties 36 years ago.

    The relations entered a new phase in 2004 with the establishment of a strategic partnership. The two nations had witnessed increasing mutual political trust and economic cooperation, and maintained sound communication in major international and regional affairs.

    This brought substantial benefits to the two nations and their people, he noted.

    Both countries enjoyed good prospects in bilateral economic and trade cooperation, Wu said, noting China would continue valuing the relations with Argentina from a strategic height. It was ready to work with the South American country to increase the pragmatic cooperation in this field.

    Speaking highly of the existing relations between the respective legislative bodies, Wu said the NPC would promote exchanges and cooperation with the Argentine congress.

    Pampuro congratulated Wu on the successful staging of the Beijing Olympics and said the Paralympics would also be wonderful.

    He said his country valued the strategic partnership with China. The Argentine Senate was willing to work with the NPC to help expand cooperation between the two nations and to deepen their friendship.