China attaches great importance to the development of long-term, steady, sound, constructive and cooperative partnership with India, said Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin.

Jia, who started an official goodwill visit to India Sunday, made the remarks in New Delhi Monday at a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Speaking highly of the progress made in bilateral relations, Jia said Sino-Indian good-neighborly friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation conforms to the aspirations of the two peoples and the historical trend and will benefit peace and stability in the region and the world at large.

He noted that both sides should follow the principles enshrined in the Sino-Indian joint declaration on principles for relations and comprehensive cooperation, which was signed during Vajpayee's visit to China this year, substantiate their consensus and maintain the sound momentum.

Jia expressed his appreciation for India's position on the Tibet issue, and his belief that the Indian side will strictly abide by its political commitment.

Jia went on to say that next year will be the 50th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence, and to carry forward the spirit of such principles is of realistic significance.

Jia said China will work with India to hold activities to mark the occasion, which was echoed by Vajpayee.

Vajpayee said India places great importance on relations with China, and will work for closer cooperation of mutual benefit with China.

Such cooperation has been strengthened comprehensively and cherishes vast potentials, noted Vajpayee.

He said bilateral relations have entered a mature stage and both sides can have candid discussions on problems, which will not impact their cooperation in various fields.

He said he looks forward to keeping bilateral high-level contacts, expanding economic and trade relations and promoting all- round cooperation of mutual benefit.

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