China and Pakistan Wednesday praised the ties between their parliaments and both agreed to raise inter-parliamentary cooperation to a higher level.

Wu Bangguo (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, meets with Speaker of Pakistan's National Assembly Fahmida Mirza, in Beijing, capital of China, April 22, 2009. [Liu Weibing/Xinhua]

In his meeting with visiting Speaker of Pakistan's National Assembly Fahmida Mirza, Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo noted that China always conducted its ties with Pakistan taking a strategic, long-term perspective and was committed to pushing forward bilateral relations.

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), the top legislature, highlighted the growth of bilateral relations and expressed appreciation for Pakistan's support for China on issues relating to Taiwan and Tibet.

China will firmly back Pakistan's efforts for national stability and development, Wu added.

Wu said the NPC and Pakistan's National Assembly had forged friendly legislative ties.

"I hope to see the two parliaments continue to cement cooperation at various levels and through various channels in a bid to expand mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples," Wu said.

Mirza said relations with China were always at the top of the agenda in Pakistan's foreign policies.

Pakistan hoped to expand cooperation with China in fields such as transportation, energy and free trade, Mirza said. She also urged both countries to develop exchanges among female members of their legislatures.

She also reiterated firm support for China's principle and position on issues relating to Taiwan and Tibet.

Mirza's visit to China from April 21 to 27, her first, was made at the invitation of Wu. She will also visit the western city of Xi'an and the economic powerhouse of Shanghai.

(Xinhua News Agency April 23, 2009)