Li Changchun, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), met with Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa in Quito Wednesday, saying China is ready to continue equal and mutually beneficial cooperation with Ecuador.

 

The two sides exchanged views on bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas that include the economy, trade, culture, public health, energy and infrastructure.

 

Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made a stopover in Quito during his Latin America tour.

 

During the meeting with Correa, Li expressed his satisfaction at the smooth development of bilateral links since the two countries established diplomatic relations. Li appreciated Ecuador's adherence to the one-China policy.

 

Correa said Ecuador and China share a long history of exchanges, adding that the Chinese community in Ecuador has made important contributions to the development of Ecuador.

 

He said Ecuador is ready to advance bilateral cooperation in all fields on the basis of sticking to the one-China policy. He added that Ecuador will also strengthen coordination with China on international affairs.

 

Li said China places importance on developing friendly relations with Ecuador. Noting that exchanges between political parties is an important part of both countries' foreign policy, Li said the CPC is willing to carry out friendly communications with political parties in Ecuador so as to exchange experiences on governing the country.

 

Correa said the ruling party of Ecuador is also willing to make more contacts with the CPC and learn from China's successful experience.

 

Li will leave Quito for Peru to continue his Latin America visit, which has already taken him to Mexico, Venezuela and Surinam.

 

Li also met with Ecuadorian Foreign Minister Maria Fernanda Espinoza on Wednesday morning.

 

(Xinhua News Agency March 29, 2007)