China's top legislator Wu Bangguo met with visiting Grenadian Prime Minister Tillman Thomas Thursday, pledging closer cooperation with the Caribbean nation amid the global downturn.

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, applauded the growth of China-Grenada ties since their resumption of diplomatic ties in 2005.

He cited frequent high-level exchanges, expanded cooperation in political, economic, cultural and educational areas, and enhanced coordination in international and regional affairs.

The friendship had yielded concrete benefits to both peoples and met the fundamental and long-term interests of both sides, Wu added.

Leaders of the two countries attached great importance to bilateral ties. Meanwhile, both sides had held to agreements reached before the restoration of diplomatic ties and actively promoted cooperation in diversified areas, Wu said.

China was ready to boost parliamentary exchanges with Grenada, Wu added.

Thomas expressed appreciation for China's support for Grenada's development and reiterated adherence to the one-China policy.

He said the current economic situation had an impact on most countries, including Grenada, and he hoped to beef up trade and economic cooperation with China through his current tour.

Grenada would participate in the 2010 Shanghai Expo, he added.

Thomas came to China for an official visit, scheduled for 15 to 21, at the invitation of Premier Wen Jiabao.

China and Grenada established diplomatic relations in 1985 and severed ties in 1989 over the Taiwan issue. Relations resumed in 2005.

(Xinhua News Agency June 18, 2009)