BEIJING - China and Turkey pledged here on Wednesday to strengthen exchanges between religious groups of both countries.

The pledge was made during a meeting between Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu and Mehmet Gormez, head of Turkey's Religious Affairs Department.

Speaking highly of bilateral relations, Hui said that the two countries have maintained excellent cooperation in international and regional affairs, as well as frequent high-level visits, close trade relations and frequent people-to-people exchanges in recent years.

Hui said that China has a policy of free religious belief that is guaranteed by law. China values the positive role played in society by people with religious beliefs, Hui added.

He expects to enhance cooperation between the two countries and increase communication between religious groups in both countries.

Gormez said that Turkish people have a "deep affection" for the Chinese and that they hope to strengthen friendly relations with the Chinese government, the Islamic circle and Muslims in China.