Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Friday praised the important contributions made by the Indian opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to promoting relationship between China and India.

During a meeting with BJP leader Sushma Swaraj, Wen said China-India relations have kept good momentum, thanks to joint efforts made by the governments and civil societies of both countries.

"During my current visit to India, I had a deep impression that various parties of the country hold positive attitudes towards developing ties with China," the premier said.

Wen appreciated the BJP's efforts in enhancing friendship with China over the years, and welcomed the party to carry on more exchanges with the Chinese side under new context, so as to boost mutual political and strategic trust, expand cooperation and consolidate friendship.

Swaraj said she was deeply impressed by the "friendly" and "frank" exchanges between Wen and the representatives from various parties and circles in India.

"These exchanges would further facilitate the growth of our bilateral ties," she added.

The BJP was ready to make concerted efforts to promote friendly exchanges and cooperation with China, Swaraj said.

Wen arrived here Wednesday for a three-day official visit at the invitation of his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh.

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