Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with Vagelis Meimarakis, secretary of the Central Committee of the New Democratic Party (NDP) of Greece, and his delegation Monday.

Li Changchun (R), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of CPC, meets with Vagelis Meimarakis, secretary of the Central Committee of the New Democratic Party of Greece, in Beijing on Nov. 15, 2004.

Extending his congratulations to the success of the Athens Olympic Games, Li said China and Greece, both with long histories and ancient civilizations, have contributed greatly to the advancement of humanity. Currently, the two countries face the same task of developing their national economies and improving their peoples' lives, and hold the same or similar views on crucial international issues.

China attaches a great deal of importance to Sino-Greek ties, Li said, and is ready to join with Greece to achieve more fruitful cooperation.

Speaking highly of the party-to-party relations between China and Greece, Li said the CPC would enhance friendly exchange and cooperation with the NDP.

Meimarakis said the Greek people respected and cherished the Chinese culture and believe the two countries' civilizations provided valuable intellectual treasures to the world, which will positively impact the future of humanity. Greece will continue to adhere to the one-China policy, strengthen friendly ties with China and enhance cooperation in politics, economy, security and tourism, he said.