China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin on Tuesday called for closer cooperation with Malaysia, in a bid to contribute more to regional peace and development.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remarks when meeting with Ong Tee Keat, president of Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) and also the country's minister of transport.

"China and Malaysia have enjoyed smooth growth of ties since forging diplomatic relations, with frequent high level visits, increasing mutual political trust and expanding cooperation," he noted.

The two countries in 2004 agreed to promote their strategic cooperative relationship. Since then, exchanges in politics, economy, science, technology, culture and tourism have achieved continuous progress, Jia said.

"China and Malaysia, both as developing nations, always treat each other with equality, mutual respect and trust, and are always good neighbors and partners," he said.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) was ready to boost friendly exchanges with the MCA, Jia noted.

Ong said facing the current international financial crisis, the two countries as well as the two political parties should strengthen bilateral friendship and cooperation, which would play an important role in dealing with the crisis.

Ong expected more cooperation with China in economy, education and other areas.

Ong and his delegation were here on a visit to China at the invitation of the CPC from Jan. 18 to 23.

(Xinhua News Agency January 20, 2009)