Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Latvian President Valdis Zatlers in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 22, 2010. [Xinhua/Pang Xinglei]

China and Latvia Friday pledged to further develop bilateral ties in a meeting between Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping and Latvian President Valdis Zatlers. Hailing recent developments in China-Latvia relations, Xi said China attaches importance to relations with Latvia.

He said the two countries should maintain high-level visits and expand economic and trade cooperation while jointly opposing trade protectionism.

Xi also urged the two sides to coordinate closely on major international issues within the China-EU framework.

Zatlers, who attended the Latvian Pavilion Day celebrations at the 2010 Shanghai Expo during his China visit, congratulated Xi on the great success of the Expo.

He said Latvia will deepen cooperation with China in areas such as trade and investment, culture and education.

He also said Latvia will abide by the one-China policy.

Xi thanked Zatlers for Latvia's adherence to the one-China policy.