Premier Li Keqiang (R) meets with Italian Lower House President Laura Boldrini in Rome, Italy, Oct 15, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

ROME - Premier Li Keqiang met respectively with Italian Lower House President Laura Boldrini and Senate President Piero Grasso on Wednesday, vowing to boost closer parliamentary exchanges between the two countries.

While meeting with Boldrini, Li pledged joint efforts with Italy to take the opportunity of celebrating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year, to push for greater achievements of bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.

After briefing her about China's new measures and progresses in its reform and opening-up, Li said although the two countries differ in their national conditions, they both face the task of sustainable development.

He called for the parliamentary departments of both sides to enhance exchanges at different levels and in various forms, and share experience in legislation and governance, so as to contribute to deepening bilateral pragmatic cooperation.

Hailing the profound culture and history of both countries as well as their fruitful cooperation in a variety of areas, Boldrini said Italy admires China's achievements in its reform and opening-up.

The Italian Lower House is committed to facilitating stronger exchanges and cooperation with the Chinese National People's Congress, she said.

Boldrini appreciated China's participation in the 2015 Milan World Expo.

Praising the positive contribution of overseas Chinese to Italy's economic and social development, she welcomed more Chinese tourists and students to visit and study in her country.