Top Chinese lawmaker calls for closer cultural ties with Italy

In Europe, top legislator Wu Bangguo says that both China and Italy have long-standing cultural traditions and should strengthen exchange in these areas. Wu Bangguo made the remarks in Italy while meeting with the president of the Regional Council of Tuscany, Riccardo Nencini.

Wu Bangguo (L2), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's  National People's Congress, the country's top legislature, visits  the research and development center under the Italian National Agency  for New Technology, Energy and Environment (ENEA) in Rome May 21, 2009. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

Wu Bangguo arrived in the regional capital of Florence on Friday afternoon as part of his official goodwill visit to the country. In a review of his meetings with parliamentary leaders, Wu said the two sides share a strong will to advance bilateral links and cooperation.

Wu Bangguo noted the two countries share a long-standing friendship. And he said China and Italy are currently enjoying the best-ever period of their relationship.

Nencini recalled Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Florence in 2004, saying he is glad to welcome yet another senior Chinese leader to the region.

Wu noted that during Premier Wen's previous trip, the two countries officially launched their far-reaching strategic partnership. Since then, bilateral ties have been growing rapidly.