Wu Bangguo (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), meets with visiting Slovenian Prime Minister Borut Pahor in Beijing, China, on June 23, 2010. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)
BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhua) -- Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo on Wednesday met with visiting Slovenian Prime Minister Borut Pahor.
Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), first extended a welcome to Pahor, who is paying a four-day working visit to China, including a stop at the World Expo in Shanghai.
Wu said he expected the Shanghai Expo would help enhance understanding and friendship between the two countries.
Wu said bilateral ties had steadily increased since China and Slovenia forged diplomatic relations in May 1992, saying political trust had deepened and economic cooperation had expanded.
Pahor said the two countries had always understood and respected each other.
Citing China's economic rebound after the financial crisis, Pahor recognized China's contribution to the world economic recovery and growth.
Wu appreciated Slovenia's support to China on issues concerning the country's core interests.
Looking to the future, Wu said China would like to work with Slovenia to maintain high-level visits, increase parliamentary exchanges, expand business cooperation and seek closer coordination on international issues.
Pahor echoed Wu, saying the two countries would benefit more from each other in the future.
Later Wednesday, Pahor will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao.
After Beijing, Pahor will be heading to Shanghai for the events marking Slovenia Day at the World Expo.