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Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC), arrived in Harare from Nairobi of Kenya on Monday evening to start an official goodwill visit to Zimbabwe.

It is the first visit to Africa by China's top legislator since the country's new leadership took office.

Wu was accorded a warm welcome by Zimbabwean Vice President Joseph Msika and Speaker of the parliament Emmerson Mnangagwa when he arrived at the airport in Harare.

Wu said in a written statement upon his arrival that "the Chinese side stands ready to work with the Zimbabwean side, in keeping with the principles of long-term stability, equality, mutual benefit and all-round cooperation, to promote mutual understanding, consolidate traditional friendship, improve the effectiveness of cooperation and push forward the development of China-Zimbabwe relations."

In spite of the vicissitudes of the international situation, Wu said, China and Zimbabwe have witnessed smooth development of bilateral relations ever since the establishment of diplomatic ties 24 years ago.

He said the two countries have enhanced political mutual trust, continuously expanded economic cooperation and trade, carried out fruitful exchanges and cooperation in all other fields, and enjoyed close coordination and mutual support in international affairs.

"I look forward to having in-depth exchanges of views on bilateral relationship and other issues of common interest with President Mugabe, Vice-President Msika, Speaker Mnangagwa and other Zimbabwean leaders," he said.

He hoped his current visit contribute to further enhancing mutual understanding, strengthening traditional friendship and advancing bilateral exchanges and cooperation in all fields, he said, noting "I believe, with the thoughtful arrangements of my host, this visit is bound to yield positive results."

Ever since gaining independence, he said, the Zimbabwean government and people have stood firm on safeguarding national sovereignty and independence, made arduous efforts in the exploration of the road of development that fits in with its national reality and devoted themselves to developing national economy and creating a well-off life.

He said the Zimbabwean government pursues an independent foreign policy of peace, takes an active part in international and regional affairs, and plays a constructive role in safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries as well as promoting regional peace, stability and development.

Wu had just concluded his three-day official goodwill visit to Kenya, before coming to Zimbabwe, the second leg of his four-nation African tour, which will also take him to Zambia and Nigeria.