Zhang Dejiang (R), chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, shakes hands with Fatih Ezzedine al-Mansur, speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of the Sudan, during their talks in Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2014. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

Zhang Dejiang (3rd L), chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Fatih Ezzedine al-Mansur (4th R), speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of the Sudan, in Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2014. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING -- China and Sudan agreed in Beijing on Thursday to beef up their parliamentary cooperation.

The agreement was reached between top legislator Zhang Dejiang and Fatih Ezzedine al-Mansur, speaker of the Sudanese National Assembly.

Describing parliamentary cooperation an important part of China-Sudan ties, Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC), urged the two parliaments to facilitate exchanges among various levels, share governance experiences and set up cooperation mechanisms.

In return, Fatih said the Sudanese National Assembly was willing to strengthen comprehensive cooperation with the NPC, to contribute to an enhanced China-Sudan friendship and closer cooperation.

Fatih is visiting China on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties. Noting that Sudan was among the first group of African and Arab countries to set up diplomatic ties with China, Zhang said the two sides have firmly supported each other on major issues concerning their core interests.

China has been the largest trading partner and investment source for Sudan for several years, he said, adding both sides had seen vigorous cooperation in such areas as technology, culture and public health.

China would continue its investment in and assistance of Sudan, implement construction projects, and explore new areas for cooperation, Zhang vowed.

Fatih said his country was grateful for China's political support and economic assistance, adding Sudan firmly supports China's major concerns.

The Sudan-China friendship is very solid, he said, adding it was based on principles of peaceful co-existence, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefits.

Zhang briefed Fatih about the NPC's role in China's reform. He said the reform would not only promote the country's sustainable development, but also bring new opportunities to other countries including Sudan.

Fatih is visiting China from March 31 to April 4 as Zhang's guest. President Xi Jinping also met with him on Thursday.