In a significant move to bolster international relations, Zhao Leji, China's top legislator and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held talks with Bahamian parliament leaders Patricia Deveaux, Speaker of the House of Assembly, and Julie LaShell Adderley, President of the Senate, in Beijing on Tuesday.
Zhao highlighted the remarkable progress in bilateral relations over the past 27 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the Bahamas. He emphasized the continuous expansion of practical cooperation, the deepening of people-to-people exchanges, and the strong mutual understanding and support on key issues affecting both nations.
China expressed its willingness to work closely with the Bahamas to enhance cooperation across various fields, aiming to accelerate the development of bilateral relations and bring greater benefits to both countries and their people. Zhao praised the Bahamas for its steadfast adherence to the one-China principle, which serves as the political cornerstone for their friendly relations and a crucial foundation for expanding practical cooperation.
In a forward-looking statement, Zhao welcomed the Bahamas' potential participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to open broader avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation and shared development. He also expressed hope for the Bahamas to join China's \"three global initiatives,\" contributing to global peace, stability, development, and prosperity.
Addressing climate change, Zhao acknowledged the unique challenges faced by small island nations like the Bahamas and reaffirmed China's commitment to strengthening communication and coordination to address these environmental concerns.
The talks also focused on enhancing legislative exchanges, with Zhao expressing the NPC's willingness to engage in friendly exchanges with the Bahamian House of Assembly and Senate. This includes sharing governance experiences, fostering deeper friendship and cooperation, and creating a conducive legal environment for strengthening trade and investment ties.
Patricia Deveaux and Julie LaShell Adderley reaffirmed the Bahamas' commitment to the one-China principle and expressed admiration for China's significant achievements. They extended their gratitude for China's invaluable assistance in the Bahamas' economic and social development and reiterated their parliament's readiness to deepen exchanges with the NPC. The Bahamian leaders emphasized their dedication to enhancing cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, culture, and legislation.
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China's top legislator holds talks with Bahamian parliament leaders
cgtn.com
