国内英语新闻:Top Chinese political advisor, South African president discuss bilateral relations, climate c

PRETORIA, March 30 (Xinhua) -- Top Chinese political advisor Jia Qinglin on Tuesday discussed with South African President Jacob Zuma on seeking stronger bilateral relations and coordinating the two countries' stances on climate change.

Jia first extended the warm greetings and good wishes of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Zuma, who in return conveyed his greetings to Hu. Hu and Zuma have met several times on the sidelines of the international summits since Zuma took presidency last May.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country's top advisory body, was making the visit at the invitation of the National Council of Provinces of South Africa. Jia held talks with Mninwa Mahlangu, chairman of the National Council of Provinces of South Africa, at Cape Town Monday.

Zuma said Jia's visit was of great significance to boost bilateral relationship and called on both sides to take the opportunity of the visit to expand substantial cooperation and bring bilateral strategic partnership to a new high.

On bilateral relations, Jia reviewed the growth of China- Africa relationship since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1998, highlighting frequent visits, stronger political trust, enhanced economic cooperation and more solid public foundation.