China, Cuba FM call for closer cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) shakes hands with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez on his official visit in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 6, 2013. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla on Wednesday, calling for closer cooperation between the two countries.

Wang said the China-Cuba relationship entered a new stage of comprehensive development, and that the range, depth and speed of bilateral cooperation in various fields has reached unprecedented levels.

Wang said China and Cuba have common ideals and beliefs, adding that China cherishes the China-Cuba traditional friendship and is willing to enhance political mutual trust, strengthen pragmatic cooperation and promote common development.

China is also willing to collaborate more closely and support Cuba in international and regional issues, aiming to boost the China-Latin America comprehensive cooperative partnership and safeguard the overall interests of developing countries in both Asia and Latin America, Wang said.

Rodriguez said Cuba is satisfied with the bilateral relationship and willing to enhance cooperation with China in political affairs, trade,culture, and other fields.

Cuba, which currently holds the presidency of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), positively supports the cooperation between China and Latin America, Rodriguez said.

The two sides also exchanged views on issues of common concern, such as the regional situation in Latin America and China-Latin America cooperation.

Rodriguez is paying an official visit to China from Tuesday to Thursday at Wang's invitation.