Jia Qinglin (R), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, meets with Romania's Former President Ion Iliescu in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 9, 2008. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin on Tuesday met with ex-Romanian President Ion Iliescu to discuss bilateral ties.

    "China cherishes its traditional friendship with Romania and attaches great importance to bilateral ties," said Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top advisory body.

Jia Qinglin (R), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, meets with Romania's Former President Ion Iliescu in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 9, 2008. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei) Photo Gallery>>>

    In their talks in the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing, Jia said Romania was among the earliest countries to recognize the People's Republic of China (PRC). The two forged bilateral ties on Oct. 5, 1949, four days after the PRC founding.

    Jia reviewed the sound Sino-Romanian cooperation in politics, trade and culture and pledged to work closely with Romania to realize a steady, healthy and harmonious relationship in the new era.

    Iliescu, the president from 1990 to 1996 and from 2000 to 2004,said China had achieved remarkable progress since its reform and opening-up starting in 1978.

    The country's boom benefited not only to Chinese but also to world peace and development, he added.

    The Romanian Social Democratic Party honorary president said all political parties in his country wanted to develop ties with China and felt satisfied with the bilateral cooperation in all fields.