BEIJING, June 15 (Xinhua) -- Senior Chinese legislator Zhou Tienong vowed on Wednesday to strengthen parliamentary exchanges with Italy.
He made the pledge while meeting with a delegation from the Association of Friends of China under the Italian parliament, led by President of the association Giuseppe Menardi.
Zhou, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the China's top legislative body, said China attaches great importance to the influence of Italy in European and global affairs.
"The NPC is ready to further cement cooperation with the Italian parliament, in a bid to promote all-round development of bilateral ties," he said.
Zhou hailed the progress of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties 41 years ago, citing enhanced political trust, and remarkable cooperation in various areas including trade, technology, environmental protection, culture and education.
Menardi said the association would make unremitting efforts to push forward Italy-China cooperation in various areas.