Top legislator Wu Bangguo arrived in Montevideo Sunday evening for a three-day official goodwill visit.

 

In a written speech at the airport, Wu said China and Uruguay have enjoyed deep political trust, economic cooperation and cultural exchanges over the past 18 years since the two forged diplomatic ties.

 

"The pragmatic cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit embodied the spirit of south-south cooperation and showed great vitality," Wu said.

 

During his stay in Uruguay, Wu is expected to meet with Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez, Vice President and President of the National Congress of Uruguay Rodolfo Gustavo Nin Novoa and President of Chamber of Deputies Nora Castro. They will exchange views on bilateral ties, parliament exchanges and other issues of common concern.

 

Wu said he hoped his visit will deepen the friendship between Chinese and Uruguayan people and promote the healthy development of China-Uruguay friendly cooperation.

 

Uruguay is the second leg of Wu's three-nation tour in South America. Before coming to Uruguay, he visited Brazil. He is expected to leave for Chile on Tuesday.

 

(Xinhua News Agency September 4, 2006)