On the afternoon of October 26, 2011, Wu Bangguo, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, met with President of the Venezuelan Congress Fernando Soto Rojas at the Great Hall of the People.

Wu hailed the smooth development of China-Venezuela relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties 37 years ago. With the direct care of the leaders of the two countries and the joint efforts of both sides, China-Venezuela relations have entered a new period of comprehensive development since both sides forged a strategic partnership of common development in 2001. Both sides have witnessed frequent high-level exchanges and mutual firm support on major issues concerning each other's core interests, which further cemented the political foundation of bilateral ties. Pragmatic cooperation has made gratifying progress and there are many highlights in bilateral cooperation on economy, finance and investment, which forged a closer material bond for the ties. Both sides have also maintained sound communication and coordination in regional and global affairs, Wu said, adding that China is satisfied with the progress of bilateral ties. Calling Venezuela a country with significant influence in Latin America, Wu said in face of the complex, volatile international situation, the strengthening of China-Venezuela relations meets the fundamental interests of both countries and peoples, and also helps world peace, stability and prosperity. China is ready to boost friendly exchanges with Venezuela between governments, parliaments and parties, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas and further cement the two countries' bilateral strategic partnership of common development for the benefit of both peoples.

Wu said the friendly exchanges between the legislative bodies are an important part of China-Venezuela relationship. Wu said the NPC of China hopes to enhance the existing friendly cooperative relations with the Venezuelan Congress, expand contacts at all levels, strengthen coordination in multilateral parliamentary organizations, and boost the sharing of experiences in country governance as well as in democracy and legal system building so as to enrich the connotations of the ties.

At request, Wu also briefed on the CPC's revolution, construction and reform process and its concept of governance.

In response, Soto told Wu the Venezuelan people hold friendly feelings towards the Chinese people, always admire China's development achievements, and hope to learn from China's experiences. The Venezuelan Congress is willing to enhance friendly exchanges with the NPC to contribute to closer state relations, he added.