China pledged Tuesday to work closely with Cyprus to boost bilateral ties.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang made the vow in a meeting with Cyprus Foreign Minister Markos Kyprianou at the Great Hall of the People.

Vice Premier Li characterized China and Cyprus as friends and good partners seeking joint development.

As the world's biggest developing country, China is committed to developing its economy and improving its people's livelihood, Li said.

China hopes to work with Cyprus to enhance mutual trust and friendship, Li said.

He also said China hopes to boost cooperation in trade and people-to-people exchange.

Kyprianou echoed Li's call, pledging joint efforts with China to cement the two nations' traditional friendship.

Kyprianou said Cyprus hopes to play a positive role in boosting China-Europe ties.

Kyprianou is visiting China as a guest of his Chinese counterpart, Yang Jiechi. They also held talks in Beijing Tuesday.