Wu Bangguo (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, meets with Fiji's President Epeli Nailatikau in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 2, 2010. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)
SHANGHAI, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo met with Fijian President Epeli Nailatikau in Shanghai Saturday.
Wu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said the developing country status of China and Fiji meant both sides could do more to boost the relationship.
Despite great differences in national conditions, China and Fiji, as developing countries, shared historical tasks of economic development and improvement of people's lives, Wu said.
"China and Fiji understand and support each other on major issues and issues relating to their respective core interests. This lays a solid foundation for long-term and stable growth of the relationship," said Wu.
Wu said the smooth relationship brought real benefits to the two countries and two peoples.
China advocated democracy in international relations and respected diversity, and all countries, big or small, rich or poor, strong or weak, were equal in the international community, he said.
"China would like to work with Fiji to advance the relations on principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit," said Wu.
Applauding China's great achievements in modernization and contributions to world peace and stability, Nailatikau thanked China for its long-term, unselfish assistance to his country.
Fiji would strengthen ties with China and draw on Chinese experiences in country building, Nailatikau said, welcoming more Chinese enterprises to invest in his country and tourists.
The Fiji president reaffirmed his adherence to the one-China policy and support for the peaceful reunification of China.
Nailatikau is in China for the Shanghai World Expo and attended celebrations of China's National Pavilion Day Friday.
In late September, he attended the 2010 China Investment and Trade Fair in Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
Wu Bangguo (R, front), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, meets with Fiji's President Epeli Nailatikau in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 2, 2010. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)