Top Chinese political adviser meets Philippines Senate president

Jia Qinglin (R Front), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, meets with Juan Ponce Enrile, president of the Philippine Senate, in Manila on Nov. 19, 2009. Jia Qinglin arrived in Manila on Nov. 19 for a two-day official goodwill visit to the Philippines. (Xinhua/Fan Rujun)
China's top political adviser, Jia Qinglin, and Philippines Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile pledged to boost cooperation between the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the Philippine Senate when they met in Manila Thursday.

Jia, chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, said China-Philipines ties had witnessed healthy development since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1975.

"China and the Philippines share broad common interests," Jia said, highlighting the enhanced mutual political trust, booming economic and trade ties, frequent humanitarian and cultural exchanges and close coordination on international and regional issues.

China appreciated the Philippine parliament's firm adherence to the one-China policy on the Taiwan issue, Jia noted.

He said China and the Philippines could further cooperate in fighting the global economic crisis and China would like to enhance cooperation with the Philippines in such sectors as trade, two-way investment, tourism, education and culture with the principle of equality and mutual benefit, he said.

Jia spoke highly of the close contact and exchange between the CPPCC and the Philippines Senate, pledging to step up exchanges and learn from each other to promote the social development of the two countries.

Enrile said the Philippines enjoyed great benefits from the friendly and cooperative ties with China.

He appreciated China's aid to the typhoon-hit areas of the Philippines and vowed to unswervingly stick to the one-China policy.

After their talks, Jia and Enrile witnessed the signing of several agreements on economic, education and disaster relief cooperation.

Jia arrived in Malina Thursday afternoon for a two-day official visit as guest of Enrile. He will also visit Peru, Ecuador and Brazil.

Source:Xinhua