Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with a delegation from the Communist Party of China (CPC) led by by Wang Lequan, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, in Damascus on Wednesday.

The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on ways to deepen the traditional China-Syria friendship and strengthen cooperation between the CPC and the Arab Socialist Renaissance Party (ASRP), of which Bashar is general secretary.

The Chinese delegation's visit to Syria showed the importance China attaches to bilateral ties, said Bashar.

Bashar thanked China for supporting Syria in its efforts to maintain its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He expressed the hope China will play a greater role in the Middle East and international affairs at large and continue its contributions to peace and stability in the region and the rest of the world.

Bashar also said Syria adheres to the one-China policy and is convinced China will eventually realize the great cause of reunification.

He reiterated that the ASRP is ready to further strengthen the friendly exchanges with the CPC and promote the all-round development of bilateral relations.

Wang spoke highly of the development of bilateral relastions between the two parties and two countries since the the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, citing frequent exchanges of high-level visits, increased political mutual trust and closer friendly cooperation in various fields.

He expressed his appreciation for Syria's steadfast position in adhering to the one-China principle on the question of Taiwan and thanked Syria for its support to China over human rights and other issues.

Wang also said the healthy development of the party-to-party relations has contributed to closer ties between the two countries, adding that the CPC is ready to further strengthen its friendly ties and cooperation with the ASRP.

Source: Xinhua