BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- China and Venezuela Friday pledged to boost bilateral relations and cooperation.

The pledge came out of a meeting between Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang and Venezuelan government delegation, which is in China for the ninth meeting of the China-Venezuela Senior Mixed Committee.

Hailing the fast growth of China-Venezuela relations in recent years, Li said the two sides have enjoyed fruitful cooperation in areas including energy, agriculture, culture and infrastructure.

Li noted that Venezuela has become one of China's most important trading and investment partners in Latin America.

He said strengthening cooperation between the two countries is not only beneficial for the two countries but also good for south-south cooperation and the overall strength of developing countries.

China will conduct relations with Venezuela with a strategic point of view and promote pragmatic cooperation in all areas, Li said.

He added that the mixed committee of senior officials from both sides can play an active role in this regard.

The vice premier also extended his condolences to northern parts of Venezuela, which were hit by the recent flooding.

He also announced, on behalf of the Chinese government, an emergency assistance package for Venezuela to help in the food relief work.

Chief delegate Jorge Giordani, the Venezuelan minister of planning and finance, expressed Venezuela's gratitude for China's assistance.

He also said Venezuela is satisfied with the two countries' expanding cooperation.

He said Venezuela will continue to expand cooperation with China while taking the bilateral relationship to a new high.