国内英语新闻:Top Chinese political advisor starts visit to South Africa

CAPE TOWN, March 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin on Sunday arrived in Cape Town of South Africa, for an official visit to the country at the southern tip of Africa.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top advisory body, was making the visit at the invitation of the National Council of Provinces of South Africa.

South Africa was the last leg of Jia's ten-day African tour which already took him to Cameroon and Namibia.

Jia Qinglin (2nd L), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, is welcomed by a South African senior official upon his arrival at the airport in Cape Town of South Africa, March 28, 2010. Jia Qinglin on Sunday arrived in Cape Town of South Africa, for an official visit to the country at the southern tip of Africa.

In a written statement issued upon his arrival at the airport, Jia said China-South Africa relationship had advanced in an all- round way since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1998.

The two countries, which forged the strategic partnership on equality, mutual benefit and common development in 2007, have developed deeper political trust, achieved fruitful results in trade, culture, education, science, and worked closely on international issues, Jia said.

Jia Qinglin (R Front), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, is welcomed upon his arrival at the airport in Cape Town of South Africa, March 28, 2010. Jia Qinglin on Sunday arrived in Cape Town of South Africa, for an official visit to the country at the southern tip of Africa.

Jia added it was in the fundamental interests of both countries and their people to seek a stronger China-South Africa relationship, which will help boost regional and world peace and development.

"I believe the visit will increase understanding, expand common ground, boost exchanges and deepen cooperation in a bid to cement bilateral strategic partnership," Jia said.

Jia said his visit was aimed at boosting the understanding and friendship between the two nations and consolidating the cooperation in all fields.

During his stay in Cape Town, Jia will hold talks with Chairman of South African National Council of Provinces Mninwa Mahlangu.

Jia will also travel to Johannesburg and Pretoria where he will meet with South African President Jacob Zuma.