A delegation of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, is in Tonga for a three-day visit.
The delegation, headed by Jiang Zhenghua, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the NPC, met with Tonga's King George Tupon V, Prime Minister Feleti Vaka'uta Sevele, Foreign Minister Sonatane Tu'akinamolahi Taumoepeau-Tupou and other senior officials.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 1998, bilateral relations have developed smoothly, and exchange and cooperation in various fields have brought substantial benefits for both peoples, Jiang said.
It is important for China to develop ties with Tonga and it will, as always, offer to help the country in economic and social development and promote the friendly cooperation between the two countries, the official said.
China appreciates Tonga's stance of upholding the one-China policy, Jiang said.
The Tongan king expressed gratitude for China's aid, which has played a significant role in Tonga's social and economic development. Tongan people also benefited a lot from it, he added.
The king also pledged to continue to respect the One-China policy.
