China and Cuba Tuesday agreed to further enhance exchanges between the two top legislatures in an effort to promote bilateral friendship and cooperation.  

In a meeting with Raul Castro Ruz, second secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, top legislator Wu Bangguo said the National People's Congress would like to deepen its friendly cooperation with the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba and further increase exchanges in the field of building a democratic legal system so as to spur the all-round growth of bilateral relations.

Wu, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said both China and Cuba are faced with the historical task of developing their national economy and improving the living standards of their people.

"Developing bilateral friendly cooperation between China and Cuba not only accords with the fundamental interests of the people of both countries, but also contributes to the world peace and common development," Wu said.

Raul Castro started an official visit to China Sunday at the invitation of the CPC. On Monday, Raul Castro met with President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other senior leaders. He also conferred with Vice President Zeng Qinghong on Party and state relations.

Raul Castro told Wu that he was deeply impressed by major changes that had occurred in China, and that "the scientific concept on development set forth by the CPC is being implemented in a comprehensive way."

Moreover, he said, Cuba is following closely China's development and wants to improve exchanges and cooperation with China.

China and Cuba forged their full diplomatic ties in 1960. It is Raul Castro's second visit to China since 1997. He also serves as first vice president of the Council of State and first vice president of the Council of Ministers of Cuba.

(Xinhua News Agency April 19, 2005)