In a meeting with visiting Myanmar Prime Minister Soe Win, who is in Beijing on a five-day visit, President Hu Jintao said that China will continue to develop "friendly and cooperative ties" between the two countries.

These pledges are in line with China's commitment to building friendships and partnerships with neighboring countries and its policies of fostering an amicable, peaceful and prosperous neighborhood, he said.

"There are sound foundations and favorable conditions for our two nations to build friendly and cooperative ties since we are neighbors and developing countries," Hu said.

Hu said China-Myanmar relations have witnessed new progress in the new century with the combined efforts of both sides, including frequent state visits by the leaders of the two countries.

The two sides have strengthened cooperation in trade and economic matters, health care, tourism and anti-drug sectors with positive results, he said.

China and Myanmar have also cooperated closely on international and regional issues, Hu noted.

Soe Win hailed China's economic achievements, saying he had reached agreements with Chinese leaders on promoting bilateral ties. He also voiced his appreciation for China's support of Myanmar's development.

Myanmar is striving for national stability, reconciliation, economic progress and improvement in people's living standards and will learn from China's experience, Soe Win said.

Myanmar will also work with China to maintain regional peace and security.

(Xinhua News Agency February 16, 2006)