国内英语新闻:China, Cuba pledge to further enhance ties

BEIJING, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping said here Thursday that China will join hands with Cuba to strengthen cooperation and promote bilateral relations.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Vice President of the Council of Ministers of Cuba Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, who was here to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Cuba relations.

Extending the greetings of China's leadership to President of the Council of Ministers of Cuba Raul Castro Ruz and First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Fidel Castro Ruz, Xi thanked Cabrisas for coming to China to attend the 50th anniversary celebrations.

Xi reviewed the history of China-Cuba relations. "The two parties and countries have always had mutual understanding and supported each other since the establishment of ties. The China-Cuba relations have endured the changes of the international situation."

China will continue to support Cuba's just fight to maintain its sovereignty and oppose external interference, Xi said.

He also spoke highly of the fast development of China-Cuba cooperation in many areas, featuring frequent political exchanges, deepening mutual trust, smooth development of economic relations and trade, expanding cultural exchanges and close coordination in international affairs.

Cabrisas said bilateral relations between Cuba and China have witnessed comprehensive development over the past 50 years on the basis of mutual respect, equality and reciprocity.

Cuba will further enhance its cooperation with China in investment, trade and tourism, and promote the development of Cuba-China relations and the ties between Latin America and China, Cabrisas said.