On November 22, 2004, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council Huang Ju met with Speaker of the Egyptian People's Assembly Ahmad Fathi Sorour and speaker of the Egyptian Advisory Council Safwat El-Sharif respectively.

Huang said that China and Egypt enjoy long-term history of friendship and since the establishment of diplomatic ties the bilateral relations have stood tests of fluctuations of international situation. In particular, since 1999 when the two countries established the strategic partnership bilateral cooperation in all fields has made great achievements. We are willing to work with Egypt to bring new connotations to our friendly relations.

Huang pointed out that the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the Egyptian People's Assembly and the Egyptian Advisory Council play an important role in the political life of both countries. Over years both sides always maintain close exchanges and cooperation. It is hoped that both sides can strengthen exchange, learn from each other in the process of exploring the development road suited to their own national conditions and jointly push forward the development of China-Egypt strategic partnership.

Huang said that we highly compliment the long-term commitment of Egypt to promoting the peaceful resolution of international and regional issues and stand ready to keep consultations and coordination with Egypt to jointly protect the interest of developing countries and promote world peace and development.

Sorour said that the Egyptian people cherish their friendship with China very much, hold deep feeling towards and high respect for the Chinese people and feel happy about the fruitful achievements of bilateral cooperation in such areas as politics, economy and culture. Egypt hopes to learn more from China's successful experience of economic construction and see more Chinese businesses come to Egypt to make investment.

Sharif said that various Egyptian parties hold different opinions about the foreign policy of the country, but it is their common consensus to develop strategic partnership with China. He highly commented the just position held by China in international and regional affairs and expressed hope that China can play an increasingly important role.