BEIJING - Leaders from China and the Philippines agreed on Thursday to properly handle disputes in bilateral relations through consultation, and boost bilateral ties.

The agreements were made during meetings between China's top legislator Wu Bangguo and Premier Wen Jiabao with visiting Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, respectively.

"The Chinese National People's Congress (NPC) is ready to work closely with the Philippine side to implement the consensus reached by the two state leaders, enhance political trust, properly settle disputes and bring our relations to a new level," said Wu, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee.

In response, Aquino said that although differences exist between the two countries, the differences are not the essence of bilateral relations.

He said the Philippines is committed to settling disputes with China through consultation.

Aquino's current China trip is his first state visit to China since taking office in June 2010, as well as his first foreign tour outside of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations.

Aquino told Wu his China visit aims to benefit the two peoples by further cementing substantial bilateral cooperation and overall relations.

Wu spoke highly of the summit between Chinese President Hu Jintao and Aquino on Wednesday, in which the two state leaders reached a broad consensus on enhancing bilateral ties, witnessed the signing of a series of important bilateral documents, and made strategic planning for future bilateral ties.

Hu and Aquino also agreed to strengthen economic and trade cooperation while minimizing the impact of disputes in the South China Sea.

Wu said Aquino's current trip fully reflects the great importance that the Philippines attaches to bilateral relations, expressing his hope that it will give a strong boost to the bilateral strategic relationship of cooperation.

China's top legislator hailed the achievements of bilateral relations since the forging of diplomatic ties 36 years ago, citing frequent high-level visits, remarkable cooperation in various areas, vigorous cultural exchanges, and sound coordination in global affairs.

With regard to parliamentary exchanges, Wu said they play an irreplaceable role in boosting understanding and cooperation, deepening trust, and dispelling misgivings. He vowed to push forward parliamentary exchanges between both countries.

Aquino arrived in Beijing on Tuesday night for a five-day visit. Besides Beijing, he will also visit Shanghai and Southeast China's Fujian province.