China, Latvia to Further Expand Parliamentary Exchanges

China, Latvia to Further Expand Parliamentary Exchanges

China and Latvia agreed in Riga on Saturday to make continued efforts to expand exchanges and cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries.

The agreement came at a meeting between visiting China's top legislator Li Peng and chairman of Parliament of Latvia Janis Straume.

Straume said it is important for Latvia to keep friendly and cooperative relations with China as the world is in a process of multi-polarization and economic globalization. Li's visit will inject new vigor into bilateral relations, he added.

He stressed that Latvia is grateful of China because it was among the first to recognize the independence of Latvia, an important historic event of the country.

Li Peng said China recognized Latvia and established diplomatic relations with Latvia soon after the disband of the Soviet Union, as China observes an independent foreign policy of peace, and insists that all countries, large or small, should be equal.

People of each country have the right to choose their own social system and ideology, Li said, adding that China supports Latvia's efforts in maintaining the country's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and understands Latvia's policy of joining the European Union.

Straume said Latvia will continue to observe the one-China policy.

Li Peng said the two parliaments should increase contacts, and expand cooperation in the economic, trade and science and technology areas. Li invited Straume to visit China, and Straume accepted with pleasure.

Li arrived here Saturday afternoon on a three-day official visit.