Chinese premier stresses friendship with Myanmar

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 9 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said here Wednesday that China cherishes the "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship between the peoples of China and Myanmar and is committed to developing China-Myanmar friendship.

Li made the remarks during talks with Myanmar President U Thein Sein on the sidelines of the 16th leaders' meeting between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Under the new situation, China is ready to seize the major trend when dealing with bilateral relations, improve pragmatic cooperation in various fields with Myanmar and constantly instill new vitality into bilateral good-neighborly and friendly cooperation, said the premier.

China supports Myanmar's efforts in pushing forward domestic peace process, and is willing to work with Myanmar to maintain stability along the border, Li said.

China also hopes Myanmar will continue to play a constructive role in developing China-ASEAN ties, Li said.

U Thein Sein said Myanmar and China are close neighbors and Myanmar appreciates China's support.

Myanmar is ready to work closely with China to further develop bilateral comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, he said.

He said Myanmar will be the rotating chair of ASEAN next year and is willing to play a greater role in promoting ASEAN-China ties.