China, Indonesia pledge closer ties
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China and Indonesia on Tuesday pledged to step up legislative cooperation on top Chinese legislator's visit to the biggest Southeast Asian country.
"Thank to their crucial role in their own country's political life, the National People's Congress (NPC) of China and Regional Representative Council (RRC) of Indonesia should carry out friendly exchanges at all levels and increase experience sharing on ethnic and religious policy and seeking region's balanced development," Chairman of the NPC Standing Committee Wu Bangguo said in a meeting with RRC Speaker Irman Gusman Tuesday.
Irman underscored RRC's commitment to developing sound ties with China, saying it would seek closer bonds with the NPC, promote experience sharing on economy, politics and people-to-people exchanges, draw on China's experience on balanced development.
On broader China-Indonesia ties, Wu reviewed the smooth growth of bilateral ties, particularly since the two countries upgraded their relations to strategic partnership in 2005.
This is Wu's first visit to Indonesia, which coincided with the 60th anniversary of China-Indonesia diplomatic ties.
As developing countries, China and Indonesia share common tasks of growing economy and improving livelihood, Wu said.
Wu said China would like to work with Indonesia to deepen strategic cooperation, address challenges and usher in an new era of bilateral ties.
Characterizing bilateral relations as "comprehensive and strategic partnership," Irman said Wu's visit to Indonesia was historic and would promote all-round substantive cooperation.
During Wu's stay in Jakarta, China announced 10-million-yuan humanitarian aid in cash to Indonesia as earthquake, tsunami and volcanic eruptions wrecked serious havoc on the country.
Later Tuesday, a grand reception was held in honor of top Chinese legislator. Around 1,000 Indonesia officials, business entrepreneurs and others attended the reception.
In his brief address at the reception, Wu called on Indonesian people of all circles to contribute their wisdom and commitment to China-Indonesia friendly ties.
Indonesia was the second leg of Wu's three-nation tour to Southeast Asia, which also included Cambodia and Thailand.
Wu will leave Jakarta for Bangkok on Wednesday.
