Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 6, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping held meeting with Indian Minister of External Affairs Pranab Mukherjee in Beijing on Friday, during which they vowed to strengthen their strategic ties.

"China will work with India to promote the bilateral strategic partnership of cooperation and contribute to long-lasting peace and prosperity in the world," Xi said.

He said China was satisfied with the development of relations with India. The two countries had cooperated in all areas, deepened mutual understanding and trust, and maintained close coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs.

The strengthening of China-India friendship and cooperation would benefit the two peoples, and peace and development in Asia and the world, Xi said.

Mukherjee said the cooperation between the two countries would not only be conducive to regional peace and prosperity, but also the whole world.

India would join with China to push forward the strategic partnership of cooperation through exchanges and cooperation, Mukherjee said.

Learning about the progress of the torch relay of the Beijing Olympic Games, Mukherjee wished Beijing Olympic Games a great success. Xi also thanked India for its support in the torch relay in New Delhi.

Xi also briefed the guests on the relief situation since the May 12 earthquake, and expressed gratitude for Indian government's assistance.

Mukherjee said the Indian people would stand by the Chinese people in times of such difficulties.

At the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, Mukherjee started his official China tour on Wednesday. He also visited south China's Guangdong Province.

Related: Mukherjee gives speech in prestigious Peking University

(Xinhua News Agency June 7, 2008)