Senior Chinese official plans closer Cypriot links

BEIJING - He Guoqiang, a member of China's top leadership, expressed readiness to advance China-Cyprus relations in a sustained, healthy and stable way here on Tuesday.

He, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), briefed a group of visiting Cypriot officials about preparations for the upcoming 18th CPC National Congress as he met with them in the Great Hall of the People.

He, also head of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, welcomed the guests on behalf of the CPC Central Committee.

The Cypriot delegation is headed by Nikos Anastasiades, president of the Democratic Rally, or the ruling political party of the European nation.

During the meeting, He said the CPC is ready to deepen friendly cooperation with the Democratic Rally by exchanging experience on governance and administration of the country.

"The Chinese side is ready to work with Cyprus to enhance mutual trust, expand trade and investment, advance cultural and educational exchanges and benefit the people of the two countries with tangible results of bilateral cooperation," He said.

He also introduced social and economic conditions in China during the meeting.

Anastasiades said since the two countries established diplomatic links 41 years ago, bilateral relations have seen smooth progress.

He said Cyprus is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in the fields of energy, investment and tourism. The Democratic Rally president also expressed readiness to deepen exchanges between his party and the CPC and play an active role in promoting relations between Europe and China.

Anastasiades thanked China for its support on his nation's issues and said Cyprus will continue to adhere to the one-China policy.