Manuel Espino, president of Mexico's ruling National Action Party, met with Wang Jiarui, a senior official of the Communist Party of China, on Monday, with both sides expressing their willingness to strengthen bilateral ties.

 

Wang, head of the International Department of the Central Committee of the CPC, spoke highly of the development of bilateral friendly relations and cooperation in economy, politics, culture and other fields since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 1972.

 

He said the Chinese side is ready to deepen the exchanges between the ruling parties of the two countries on the basis of the principle of independence and mutual respect, enhance political mutual trust, and work together to push the Sino-Mexican strategic partnership forward.

 

Manuel Espino, president of the National Action Party, expressed the hope that the two parties would strengthen their contact and exchanges, enhance the friendship and promote the all-round and healthy development of bilateral ties.

 

The CPC delegation led by Wang arrived in Mexico City on Sunday for a good-will visit.

 

(Xinhua News Agency December 20, 2006)