Visiting Chinese President Hu Jintao has met with Chilean Senate President Hernan Larrain Fernandez and Pablo Lorenzini Basso, president of chambers of deputies, to exchange views on issues of mutual concern.

Hu Jintao said the two countries have achieved fruitful results in bilateral cooperation, including an agreement on bilateral free trade talks, Chile's recognition of China's full market economy status and China's announcement of Chile as a tourist destination for Chinese citizens.

The Chinese president said that China supports more exchanges of visits and contacts between the legislative bodies of both countries.

Larrain said Chile's Senate will continue to promote bilateral ties, suggesting further exchanges in the cultural and education sectors.

Lorenzini, for his part, said the Chambers of Deputies will continue to play its bridge role and contribute to the development of bilateral cooperation in various channels.

Hu Jintao arrived in Santiago on Thursday for a state visit to Chile and attending the 12th Economic Leaders Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), scheduled on Nov. 20-21.

(CRI.com November 20, 2004)