China's top political advisor begins visit to Samoa

2011-04-11 

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, arrives in Apia, capital of Samoa, to begin a three-day visit to the south Pacific country, April 10, 2011. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, arrives in Apia, capital of Samoa, to begin a three-day visit to the south Pacific country, April 10, 2011. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

APIA, Samoa, April 10 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin arrived here on Sunday for a three-day visit.

Jia said at the airport that since its independence, the Samoan government and people have firmly safeguarded its sovereignty, vigorously promoted national development and made remarkable achievements in all sectors.

Noting that Samoa is one of the earliest South Pacific countries to establish diplomatic ties with new China, Jia said bilateral ties have maintained a sound momentum of development, with deepening mutual political trust, fruitful exchange and cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, culture, education and health.

A sound China-Samoa relationship has brought tangible benefits to the two peoples and contributed to the stability and prosperity of the South Pacific region, Jia said.

"I look forward to having an in-depth exchange of views with the Samoan leaders on the bilateral relations and other issues of common interest and discussions on ways to effectively deepen our friendly relations and cooperation, enhance mutual understanding and friendship and develop our exchanges and cooperation in all fields," Jia said.

Samoa is the last stop of Jia's three-nation tour, which had taken him to Myanmar and Australia.