Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono met with China's official Xinhua News Agency President Li Congjun here on Thursday, with both sides agreeing to promote bilateral ties through media cooperation.

Welcoming Li's visit to Indonesia, Yudhoyono spoke highly of the bilateral strategic partnership established in 2005, hoping the two countries can set up a closer relationship.

"Our friendship should not only be between the two governments and leaders, but also the two peoples," he said.

He said he supported more cooperation between media organizations in the two countries, especially exchanges in culture and tourism news items, positive and comprehensive reports of the political, economic and cultural achievements in the two countries so as to boost understanding between the two peoples and consolidate the foundation for friendly ties.

As developing countries, China and Indonesia face many common challenges in their development. Media should pay special attention to those challenges and be committed to fair and objective coverage to promote social stability and people's confidence, Li said.

"Xinhua will further its cooperation with Indonesian counterparts, fully cover the development of Indonesia, help the Chinese people get a better understanding of the country and attract more Chinese investors and tourists," Li said.