China will work with Colombia to push forward bilateral friendship and cooperation, said Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing Monday.  

During a meeting with Andres Pastrana Arango, former president of Colombia, Jia noted the smooth development of bilateral relations with frequent exchanges of high-level visits, expanding cooperation in the political, economic, cultural and judicial fields, and increasing political mutual trust and understanding.

The Chinese side is satisfied with the development of Sino-Colombian relations, added Jia.

He said the CPPCC National Committee will continue to strengthen exchanges with Colombia and promote mutual understanding between the two governments and the two peoples so as to expand bilateral cooperation.

Pastrana expressed his admiration for China's achievements since he visited China in 1999 as Colombian president. He said he will continue to work for the progress of bilateral friendship and cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency April 6, 2004)