Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo and Premier Wen Jiabao met with visiting Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Monday, with all three vowing to step up bilateral cooperation.

Defining Russia as China's "most important strategic partner," Wu told Medvedev China always regards relations with Russia a priority.

He said this year is important for China-Russia ties, citing frequent meetings between state leaders and vigorous trade growth.

Medvedev told Wu he had an in-depth exchange of views with Chinese leaders on a wide range of topics and signed a series of important agreements during his "successful" China visit.

He stressed the importance of Russia-China relations to international relations.

Chinese President Hu Jintao and Medvedev attended a ceremony marking the completion of the China-Russia crude oil pipeline after their talks on Monday.

Calling parliamentary exchanges a key component for the China-Russia strategic partnership of cooperation, Wu proposed enhancing exchange between legislatures and cementing cooperation on large projects.

Medvedev agreed with Wu's suggestion, adding that his country highly values its strategic partnership of cooperation with China.

Russia is ready to make joint efforts with China to strengthen high-level contacts and substantial cooperation in various areas, he added.

Premier Wen hailed the consolidation and growth of bilateral ties amid the global financial crisis.

"The two countries trust and support each other, and have expanded energy, trade and investment cooperation. The two sides have also boosted cultural exchange, which has brought concrete benefits to the two peoples," said the Chinese premier.

He also vowed joint efforts with Russia to ensure completion of major cooperation projects on schedule.

Echoing Wen's call, Medvedev said his country will solemnly fulfill bilateral cooperation agreements and promote bilateral relations.

It was Medvedev's second state visit to China since he assumed the Russian presidency in May 2008.

He will travel to Shanghai Monday evening. There he will meet with Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping and attend events marking Russia's National Pavilion Day at the Shanghai World Expo.