China will work with Uruguay to further promote bilateral relations, Luo Gan, member of the Political Bureau Standing Committee of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), said in Montevideo on Thursday.

At a meeting with Uruguay's acting Foreign Minister Belela Herrera and president of the ruling Frente Amplio (FA) party, Jorge Brovetto, Luo spoke highly of the ties between the two countries.

He pointed out that bilateral relations have made steady progress in recent years, with increasing exchanges and cooperation in economy, trade, culture, and science and technology, and sound coordination and cooperation in international affairs.

On party-to-party relations, Luo said the CPC will, on the basis of the principles of independence, equality, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the FA.

Herrera and Brovetto said Uruguay has been following closely China's development, which they said sets an example for Uruguay's economic development.

They said the FA and the CPC share a common goal in their efforts to seek the well-being of their peoples, adding that they believe the current visit by Luo will further enhance bilateral friendship and cooperation in politics, economy, trade, culture and education.

Luo arrived here Thursday for a goodwill visit as the guest of the Uruguayan government and the FA after concluding a trip to Argentina.

In a written statement delivered at the airport upon his arrival, Luo said the CPC and the Chinese government attach importance to Sino-Uruguayan relations and will join hands with Uruguay in promoting the continuous development of bilateral friendship and cooperation.

Uruguay is the second leg of Luo's visit to three Latin American countries. He is also scheduled to visit Cuba.

(Xinhua News Agency December 16, 2005)