Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), arrived in Athens Monday for a four-day official and goodwill visit.

 

In a written speech upon his arrival, Wu said that Greece and China, as the birthplaces of the western and eastern civilizations respectively, have greatly contributed to the civilization and the development of the humankind.

 

He added that ever since the two countries established their diplomatic relations in 1972, the bilateral ties have developed smoothly on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

 

He noted that the bilateral relations have increased in an even more positive and progressive way, since the two countries established the comprehensive strategic partnership early this year.

 

Wu was received at the airport by First Deputy President of the Greek Parliament Sotirios Hatzigakis.

 

Wu arrived here from Moldova after concluding his two-day official and goodwill visit.

 

During his stay in Greece, he will meet Greek President Karolos Papoulias and Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and hold talks with his Greek counterpart Anna Benaki.

 

Greece is the third leg of Wu's four-nation tour, which also took him to Romania and Moldova. He will also visit Russia.

 

(Xinhua News Agency May 23, 2006)