Beijing, November 6 (RHC) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero on Monday emphasized the traditional friendship that unites both nations and the opportunities for cooperation in the new era.

During a conversation at the Great Hall of the People, Xi Jinping stressed that Marrero is the only head of government of a Latin American country to be invited to the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE), which shows the great importance the Asian giant attaches to bilateral ties.

Both countries "are good partners, good friends and good brothers," under the guidance of the successive leaders of the two countries "traditional friendship between both Communist Parties and countries has developed from generation to generation," he added.

The President reiterated his congratulations to Cuba for holding the Summit of the Group of 77 and China and highlighted the island's contributions to deepen cooperation and solidarity among developing countries.

He also expressed his hope that with this visit, bilateral cooperation could be expanded to new areas.

For his part, Marrero conveyed fraternal greetings from Army General Raúl Castro and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel.

He thanked for the invitation to the CIIE, said that Cuba's participation is a success because the exchange between businessmen of the two nations was achieved and concrete agreements were signed for the benefit of both peoples.

Marrero reiterated his condolences for the sudden death of former Premier Li Keqiang and recalled Cuba's ties with that leader.

"Throughout 63 years of deep relations we have had, our countries continue to build very solid ties," he said.

He added that in the face of the complex international scenario, and "in the face of the U.S. empire determined to impose its hegemony", peoples like those of Cuba and China, "with similar challenges, we have to unite and move forward in the construction of a prosperous socialism".

Prior to this meeting, the Cuban leader spoke with the head of the National People's Congress, Zhao Leji, to whom he stressed the importance of relations between the legislative bodies of the island and China for trade-economic ties.

"Despite the difficulties in the context of Covid-19, it is important to note that the legislative bodies did not stop, they maintained constant communication that allowed strengthening political dialogue," Marrero said.

In addition, he advocated the exchange of experiences on governance and administration between the two parties, within the framework of the process of updating their legislations in which Cuba is immersed.

Prior to these meetings at the Great Palace of the People, Marrero laid a wreath at the Monument to the Chinese People's Heroes, located in Tiananmen Square, as a tribute to the country's martyrs.

At another point in his agenda, he talked with Tang Yu Xiang, president of the Yutong company, and recalled the historical and fraternal ties of that company with the Caribbean island for almost 20 years. (Source:PL)