China attaches great importance to the relations with Jordan, and is willing to enhance bilateral friendly cooperation in various fields, said Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), in Beijing Monday.

Jia made the remark when holding talks with President Zaid Al Rifaee of Senate of Jordan, who came to China at the invitation of Jia.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Jordan have witnessed smooth development of bilateral relations, frequent high-level exchanges and enhanced political mutual trust," he said.

During Jordan King Abdullah II's visit to China last July, leaders of the two countries reached important agreement on the development of long-term friendship and mutual-benefit cooperation. He said the countries should stress booming bilateral trade and cooperation in culture, education and tourism.

The two sides have kept good coordination in the United Nations and other international organizations, said he, appreciating Jordan's adherence to the one-China policy.

As an important country in Middle East, Jordan has played a special role in safeguarding regional peace and stability as well as in pushing forward the Middle East peace process. He said that the CPPCC is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the senate of Jordan.

The two countries have been cooperating since the establishment of diplomatic relations, said Rifaee. He spoke highly of the bilateral exchanges and cooperation in economy, education, science and technology as well as medical services.

China has been keeping high economic growth rate, and Jordan welcomes more Chinese entrepreneurs to invest in Jordan. He said he hoped that the ties between Jordan's senate and CPPCC will be further enhanced.

(Xinhua News Agency November 23, 2004)