Wu Bangguo (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, shakes hands with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit during a meeting with him in Beijing, capital of China, April 25, 2012. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)
BEIJING, April 25 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator, Wu Bangguo, met here on Wednesday with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit, calling for further contact between legislative bodies.
Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, hailed the traditional friendship between Chinese and South Sudanese people, saying great potential is emerging for bilateral cooperation since the two countries established diplomatic ties.
China supports South Sudan's efforts in maintaining stability and developing its economy, and will constantly deepen bilateral cooperation, especially within the framework of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, according to Wu.
He said China appreciates South Sudan's adherence to the one-China policy.
The top legislator also proposed the two sides bolster contact and exchanges between legislative bodies so as to strengthen mutual trust and cooperation.
South Sudan values its relations with China and appreciates China's long-term support, Kiir said, pledging further cooperation with China in various fields, including in legislation.
South Sudan will stick to the one-China policy, he vowed.
Kiir is paying a state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Hu Jintao.
China established diplomatic relations with South Sudan on July 9, 2011.
