China essential partner for Brazil's economic growth: Brazilian president

BRASILIA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- China plays an essential role in the economic growth of Brazil, and Brazil hopes to forge a "new strategic partnership" between the two countries, said Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday.

In a meeting with foreign correspondents, Lula responded to a question from Xinhua by saying he intends to seek an "infinitely close" relationship with China.

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