Jia Qinglin (R), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference, shakes hands with Greek Parliament Speaker Philippos Petsalnikos in Athens, capital of Greece, Oct. 25, 2011. Jia held talks with Philippos Petsalnikos here Tuesday. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

ATHENS, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China`s top political advisor Jia Qinglin said here on Tuesday that China is ready to push forward its comprehensive strategic partnership with Greece.

During a meeting with Greek Parliament Speaker Philippos Petsalnikos, Jia said furthering ties with Greece serves the fundamental benefits of the two countries and the two peoples.

China attaches great importance to its relations with Greece and is ready to work with the European country to enhance mutual political trust, expand practical cooperation and boost cultural exchanges, said Jia, chairman of the Chinese People`s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee.

Frequent exchanges between China`s CPPCC and the Greek parliament have played an important role in boosting their comprehensive bilateral ties, said the top political advisor. He expressed a readiness to continue such cooperation.

For his part, Petsalnikos thanked China for providing precious support to Greece when the international financial crisis struck in 2008, a move he said reflecting the sincere friendship between the two countries.

All parties in the Greek parliament support developing ties with China, and they are ready to strengthen all-round ties with China, he said.

Jia arrived in Athens on Sunday for a five-day visit. Greece is the first stop of Jia`s three-nation tour in Europe, which will also take him to the Netherlands and Germany.