Li Zhanshu, chairman of China's Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) said on Wednesday that Beijing expects to join hands with Russia to continue mutual friendship and development.

Li made the remarks during a meeting with Russian Ambassador to China, Andrey Ivanovich Denisov, in Beijing.

Li said the two countries have headed towards the right direction under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, with firm mutual support and constant political trust. Through close strategic and practical cooperation, the new era of China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination has shown deeper meaning, manifesting the special value of the two countries.

Li stressed that the NPC would like to strengthen the ties with Russia's Federal Assembly and legally safeguard the bilateral development and cooperation in various fields.

Speaking highly of the contributions Denisov made to bilateral friendship, Li said he would continue his efforts to promote communication and cooperation between China and Russia.