China, Belarus sign market economy deal
By Cao Desheng (China Daily)
Updated: 2005-12-06 05:52
China and Belarus granted each other market economy status yesterday as a move to promote bilateral economic relations.
President Hu Jintao(R2) shakes hands with Belarusian President Alenander Grigorievich Lukashenko after signing the deal in Beijing Monday. [newsphoto] |
The announcement came as Belarusian President Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko pays a three-day official visit to China, which is expected to conclude late today.
A package of economic co-operation agreements was signed yesterday as Lukashenko met with his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao in Beijing, including a memorandum of understanding on recognizing China as a full market economy country.
So far, 51 countries have recognized China's full market economy status.
During the meeting, Hu said China is ready to promote bilateral relations with Belarus by maintaining high-level communication to deepen political trust and expanding pragmatic partnership to boost common development.
Meanwhile, he said, co-operation in culture, education, sports and tourism as well as exchanges between the two peoples should also be intensified.
"China is willing to work with Belarus to strengthen consultations and co-ordination in international and regional affairs to promote peace, stability and development in the region and the world," Hu said.
Hu expressed China's support for Belarus' accession to the World Trade Organization at the earliest date.
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