Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met in Beijing Monday with Sergei Stanishev, chairman of the Bulgarian Socialist Party, and his delegation.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries 55 years ago, Li said, China and Bulgaria have cultivated traditional friendship, which experienced many tests in history.

In recent years, Li said, the two sides have kept exchange of high-profile visits, expanded cooperation in many areas and coordinated with each other on international affairs.

Li said the Chinese side is, as always, determined to enhance the friendship between the two countries and make the good relationship benefit the two peoples.

Li said the CPC is willing to continue strengthening ties with Bulgarian political parties, including the Socialist Party, which will be conducive to the development of the overall relationship between the two countries.

Li briefed the guests on China's construction on socialism with Chinese characteristics and its reform and open-up policy.

Stanishev congratulated the CPC for the success of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 16th CPC Central Committee, which ended on Sunday, and praised the CPC for its experience on enhancing the capability of governing the country.

He said his party attaches great importance to the friendly relationship with the CPC and is willing to push forward the relationship.

(Xinhua News Agency September 21, 2004)