Vice-Premier meets Fijian Foreign Minister
( 2001-07-12 15:26 ) (8 )

China is willing to make concerted efforts with Fiji to obtain greater development of bilateral ties in the new century.

Chinese Vice Premier Qian Qichen made the remarks Thursday in a meeting with Kaliopate Tavola, Fijian minister for foreign affairs, external trade and sugar.

Qian extended a welcome to Tavola and his congratulations on the opening of Fijian Embassy in Beijing.

Noting that Fiji is one of the earliest south Pacific countries to establish diplomatic ties with China, Qian said bilateral relations have had continuous development in the past 25 years.

Qian pointed to the bilateral high-level contacts and their good cooperation in international and regional affairs, adding his pleasure at the development of bilateral ties.

He pointed out that there are favorable conditions for furthering bilateral relations and the Chinese government attaches importance to its relations with Fiji.

Tavola said Fiji treasures its relations with China, and there have been close exchanges between the two sides since they forged diplomatic ties.

Expressing an appreciation for the Chinese government's assistance to Fiji in the past years, Tavola noted that the opening of the Fijian Embassy here will push forward the development of bilateral relations.

Fiji will strictly abide by the United Nations Charter and a " one China" policy and it is fully confident in the good prospects for bilateral relations.

Qian voiced his appreciation for the Fijian government's "one China" stance.