Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Myanmar President U Thein Sein at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Nov 8, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - President Xi Jinping said Saturday that China and Myanmar should promote cooperation in connectivity, construction of special economic zones and improvement of people's livelihood.

Xi made the remarks while meeting with Myanmar's President U Thein Sein, who is in Beijing to attend a dialogue on strengthening connectivity partnership.

The two countries should expand communication between ruling parties, enhance exchange of experiences in state governance, and promote cooperation and cultural, people-to-people exchanges on the basis of equality and mutual benefit while taking into account the building of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, he said.

Xi said China welcomes Myanmar to join the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank as a founding member.

Xi said China hopes Myanmar can achieve long-lasting peace in northern part of the country at an early date through talks, and China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Myanmar in border areas to promote prosperity and stability in the region.

Xi said China will firmly push forward the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with Myanmar.

U Thein Sein said Myanmar stands ready to enhance inter-party, inter-government and people-to-people exchanges and cooperation with China and elevate the bilateral relationship to a new level.