Chinese VP holds talks with Cuban first vice-president

BEIJING - Chinese Vice-President Li Yuanchao on Monday held talks with Miguel Diaz-Canel, Cuban first vice-president of the councils of state and ministers.

Li said during the talks that the China-Cuba relationship has entered a new stage of comprehensive development and the two countries have learned from each other on building socialism with their respective characteristics.

The two sides need to deepen political mutual trust, grasp the opportunities to expand mutually beneficial exchanges and promote bilateral relations to a higher level, he said.

Diaz-Canel said Cuba underscores its relationship with China with a strategic view and is willing to strengthen cooperation in various fields, as well as communication on how to build socialism.

Qi Xuchun, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top political advisory body, attended the welcoming ceremony prior to the talks.