China and Italy on Wednesday signed an agreement to launch a regular parliamentary exchange mechanism in a bid to enhance bilateral cooperation.??

Wu Bangguo (L), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, shakes hands with Renato Schifani, the Senate speaker of Italy, in Rome, capital of Italy, May 20, 2009. [Li Tao/Xinhua]

The agreement, first of its kind between the two countries, was signed by visiting Chairman of the Standing Committee of China's top legislature National People's Congress (NPC) Wu Bangguo and Italian Senate President Renato Schifani.

The regular exchange mechanism could serve as an important platform that facilitates in-depth dialogue between the two countries, Wu said.

Through the platform, the NPC and Italian Senate would enhance mutual understanding and build strategic mutual trust by carrying out high level parliamentary exchanges, said Wu.

Wu Bangguo (2nd R), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, holds a talk with Renato Schifani (2nd L), the Senate speaker of Italy, in Rome, capital of Italy, May 20, 2009. [Li Tao/Xinhua]

Wu also spoke highly of China-Italy relations, saying bilateral ties have maintained a sound momentum of rapid development, especially since 2004, when the two countries forged the all-round strategic partnership.

China is willing to work with Italy to expand bilateral cooperation in various fields and jointly fight against the global financial crisis, said Wu.

For his part, Schifani said Italian Senate is ready to strengthen friendly exchanges at all levels and in various fields with the NPC to promote their political mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Schifani said China's fast economic development is not only conducive to world's peace and prosperity, but also brings great opportunities to the economic growth of countries around the world.

Italy would be glad to see China plays an even greater role on the international arena, he added.

During their meeting, Wu and Schifani also exchanged views on global economic crisis and issues of common concern.

Wu is on an official goodwill visit to Italy.??

(Xinhua News Agency May 21, 2009)