BEIJING, Dec. 16 -- Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao and Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy expressed their will to advance bilateral ties in a meeting in Beijing on Monday.

China respects the Egyptian people's rights to independently choose their political system and development path, and attaches great importance to furthering the bilateral strategic relationship of cooperation, said Li during the meeting.

Noting that China and Egypt relations have seen sound development since they forged diplomatic ties in 1956, Li said China will maintain and expand friendly exchanges and cooperation with Egypt.

Fahmy, who is on a three-day official visit to China, said it is Egypt's strategic choice to develop its relationship with China, and Egypt will deepen bilateral cooperation in all areas.

Fahmy also briefed Li on the latest developments in the situation in Egypt.

Fahmy, who will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi Monday afternoon, will conclude the visit later on Monday.