BEIJING -- China's top legislator Zhang Dejiang on Monday met with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Varela is making his first state visit to China since the Central American nation established diplomatic relations with China in June.

Establishing diplomatic ties is in accordance with the fundamental interests of China and Panama, as well as their people, said Zhang, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.

Varela reaffirmed Panama's adherence to the one-China principle.

Zhang stressed the importance of implementing the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders and strengthening cooperation on legislation.h Zhang called on the legislative bodies of China and Panama to enhance trust, share experience on state governance, strengthen people-to-people exchanges and create a friendly legal environment.

Zhang also briefed Varela on the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) held in Beijing last month.

Varela said he agrees with Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and hopes China will make more great achievements.

Varela said Panama stands ready to cooperate more with China in various fields, and he supports the communication between the legislative bodies of the two countries.