China and Bolivia pledged in Beijing Tuesday to build a closer relationship by enhancing cooperation in economic and international affairs.

"China highly values relations with Bolivia and is ready to further its reciprocal cooperation with Bolivia based on mutual respect and benefits," Vice President Zeng Qinghong said in Beijing Tuesday while meeting with visiting Bolivian Foreign Minister Armando Loayza.　

Describing the two countries as "good friends and good partners," Zeng said the relations between the two countries have developed smoothly since they forged official ties 20 years ago.　

He told Loayza that he hopes the two countries will deepen political trust and jointly further their friendly ties.

He said China is willing to work with Bolivia with the principles of mutual benefit and common development to expand trade cooperation and seriously implement the projects already reached by them.　

He promised that China will continue to provide economic aid to Bolivia to its best ability. "We will encourage Chinese enterprises to invest in Bolivia."　

"China is also ready to enhance consultation and coordination with Bolivia in key international and regional issues to jointly safeguard the just interests of developing countries to contribute to the world peace, stability and development," he said.　

Loayza said the Bolivian government thinks the Bolivia-China relationship is very important and wants to enhance cooperation with China in various fields.

He said his government firmly abides by the one-China policy.

China and Bolivia forged diplomatic ties 20 years ago. Loayza is visiting China as guest of Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.

(Xinhua News Agency November 23, 2005)