Chinese top political advisor Jia Qinglin met with Leader of Sri Lanka's United National Party Ranil Wickremasinge on Thursday, vowing to further step up party exchanges and cooperation with Sri Lanka.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top advisory body, hailed the development of China-Sri Lanka relations over the years.

As this year marks the 50th anniversary of building diplomatic ties between the two countries as well as celebration of the China-Sri Lanka friendship year, Jia called on the two sides to take the chance to push forward bilateral cooperation to a new stage.

Wickremasinge, also former Sri Lankan prime minister, appreciated China's long-term support for his country in various areas. He said he was impressed by China's remarkable progress in economic reform and opening-up.

As party exchanges are an important part of overall bilateral relations, Jia said the Communist Party of China is ready to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with various parties of Sri Lanka including the United National Party, in a bid to facilitate even greater progress in bilateral ties.

Wickremasinge also expressed his willingness to enhance party exchanges with the CPC, pledging to enrich exchange forms.

During his current China tour, he also visited southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Wickremasinge said Tibet has made great achievements in economic and social development with the help of the central government of China.