Chinese top legislator Zhang Dejiang held talks with the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia Patrick Matibini here on Thursday.

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), said China has valued its friendship with Zambia through the years.

China will work with Africa based on sincerity, real results, friendship and good faith as proposed by President Xi Jinping and implement the consensus reached by both presidents so as to realize win-win cooperation, said Zhang.

He said the NPC attaches high attention to developing ties with Zambian National Assembly and wish to lift the relationship to a new level.

Zhang proposed that both sides should consolidate political trust, strengthen exchanges at various levels and boost substantial cooperation.

China appreciates Zambia's support on issues regarding China's core interests such as Tibet and Xinjiang, Zhang said, vowing to support Zambia on a development path catered to its national conditions.

He called on the two countries' legislative bodies to enhance exchanges and share experience to create a sound policy and legal environment for trade.

Matibini hailed China's history and achievements, and applauded the solid friendship between Zambia and China which was built upon mutual respect, equality and benefit.

Zambia appreciates China's support and help, Matibini said, adding the Zambian National Assembly expects closer exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' legislative bodies.

Matibini is paying a visit to China from May 6 to 13 at the invitation of Zhang.

(Xinhua News Agency May 11, 2017)