On July 17, 2008, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Hongbo met with a delegation headed by Elmar Brok, the former Chairman of the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, who are visiting China at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs. Both sides exchanged views on China-EU relations and other issues. Wu said China attaches great importance to ties with EU and the in-depth development of China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership conforms to the fundamental interests of both sides. He expressed hope that the European Parliament will play a positive role in promoting sound development of China-EU relations. Brok spoke highly of the open and transparent practice of the Chinese government in quake relief efforts and wished the Beijing Olympic Games a success. He expressed willingness to strengthen communication with the Chinese side and jointly boost EU-China cooperation. Wu also briefed on Tibet's achievements in economic and social development and elaborated upon request on China's principled positions on issues concerning Myanmar, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan.