| Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Wednesday, November 14, 2001 |
Jiang Sends Condolences Message to Bush Over Plane Crash |
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Chinese President Jiang Zemin sent a message to US President George W. Bush on Tuesday, expressing sympathy to the US government and people over Monday's plane crash in New York.
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Candlelight for Victims of 587 Jet Crash
Chinese President Jiang Zemin sent a message to US President George W. Bush on Tuesday, expressing sympathy to the US government and people over Monday's plane crash in New York.
"Soon after our telephone conversation yesterday evening, I was shocked to learn that a U.S. passenger airplane crashed in New York with heavy casualties and huge loss of properties. and I am deeply saddened by all this, " Jiang said in his message.
"On behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people, I wish to convey to you and, through you, to the government and the people of the United States our deep sympathy. We also express our condolences to the victims, " the Chinese president told Bush.
"The New York people have suffered mightily and they are suffering again. There is no doubt in my mind that they are a strong and courageous people", Bush said after hearing the disaster.
The American Airlines Flight 587 crashed with 255 people on board shortly after takeoff from a New York airport.
Jiang, Bush Talk over PhoneThe Chinese President had a phone conversation Monday night with his US counterpart, in which they exchanged views on Sino-US relations and anti-terrorism.
Jiang said that he and Bush had a good meeting prior to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting held in Shanghai in October.
"I agree with you that China and the United States should commit to the development of Sino-U.S. constructive and cooperative relations," Jiang told Bush, adding that China is ready to make concerted efforts with the US to make this happen.
Jiang said that the World Trade Organization (WTO) has officially admitted China as a member. China anticipates close cooperation with the US and wants to work for the growth of Sino-US economic and trade cooperation.
Bush congratulated Jiang on China's entry to the WTO, saying it was the result of the far-sighted thinking of Jiang and the Chinese government.
Bush said the United States will work closely with China to push forward the U.S.-China relations, and that maintaining communication is not only important for the US and China but also for the whole world.
Even though anti-terrorism is a long-term struggle, the early restoration of peace in the relevant region is conducive to the overall anti-terrorism campaign, Jiang said.
He said that he was pleased to learn of the smooth outcome of the recent "six-plus-two" meeting, a reference to the meeting of foreign ministers of six countries neighboring Afghanistan, plus the US and Russia.
The United Nations should play an active role in combating terrorism and safeguarding world peace, Jiang said.
Bush reiterated the US stance on anti-terrorism and thanked Jiang for China's support.
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