China attaches great importance to enhancing cooperation with Papua New Guinea, Luo Gan said in Beijing Monday.

Luo Gan, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at a meeting with a delegation of the National Alliance Party of Papua New Guinea led by parliamentarian Arthur Somare.

"Since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1976, bilateral cooperation in the fields of politics, economy and culture has maintained good momentum and achieved new progress," Luo said.

Luo said that China highly valued its relationship with Papua New Guinea and would continue its efforts to enhance it on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

He acknowledged the good relationship between the CPC and the National Alliance Party in the past, calling on both sides to work together to increase exchanges and cooperation and bring their friendship to a higher level.

Luo appreciated the government of Papua New Guinea and the National Alliance Party for their adherence to the one-China policy and their support for China's reunification cause.

Coming for the Third International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) that was held in Beijing from Sept. 3 to 5, Somare hailed the conference hosted by the CPC and the newly adopted Beijing Declaration "a great success".

"The conference has played an active role in boosting cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency September 7, 2004)