Chinese and South African legislatures on Monday launched a regular exchange mechanism, pledging to further cooperation to facilitate nation-to-nation relations.

 

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, and the visiting South African National Assembly speaker Baleka Mbete signed the memorandum of understanding on establishing the mechanism.

 

Wu described the mechanism establishment as "a major event in parliamentary exchanges," which will impose positive influence on deepening bilateral cooperation and exchanges.

 

In talks with Mbete, Wu said the development of Nation-to-nation relations needs support and participation of parliaments of China and South Africa, proposing the two sides carry out pragmatic exchanges on issues of common concern.

 

China and South Africa have conducted sound cooperation in various fields, bringing tangible benefits to both peoples, said Wu, adding that the two countries enjoy good trade cooperation as South Africa is China's largest trading partner in Africa.

 

"China attaches great importance to the relations with South Africa and will make joint efforts with South Africa to push forward bilateral strategic partnership," said Wu.

 

On the China-Africa summit and the third ministerial meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) scheduled to be held in Beijing in November, Wu said the summit will help "write a new chapter" for China-Africa friendly cooperation.

 

South Africa values relations with China, said Mbete, adding the National Assembly will work for further progress of Africa-China relations.

 

Mbete is paying a visit to China from September 22 to 30.

 

(Xinhua News Agency September 26, 2006)