China, Belarus pledge stronger ties

BEIJING, Jan. 21 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with visiting Belarusian Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich here on Tuesday, and both pledged stronger bilateral ties.

Calling Myasnikovich one of the highest-profile foreign friends to be conferred the Friendship Award by the Chinese government, Xi spoke highly of his contribution to consolidating China-Belarus friendship over the years.

Xi reviewed the healthy growth of bilateral ties since they were set up 22 years ago, adding that the establishment of an all-round strategic partnership between the two last year marked a new stage.

"The two countries should seriously implement the plan for enhancing China-Belarus partnership and firmly support each other on issues regarding each other's core interests and major concern," Xi said.

He called on both sides to set up a mechanism of vice-premier-level inter-governmental cooperation committee to facilitate bilateral cooperation in such areas as industrial park, high technology, finance and transportation.

The Chinese president also stressed stronger bilateral coordination on international and regional affairs.

Xi attributed China's continuous progress to the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the adherence to the development path fit for China's national conditions, the policy of sustained reform and opening up and the role of the traditional Chinese values.

The major goal of the CPC is to pursue people's happiness and welfare, Xi said, adding that the CPC is leading all the Chinese people in pursuit of the great rejuvenation of the nation.

"We are willing to share experience of governance and work together with all other nations to promote world peace, development and prosperity," said the President.

Myasnikovich, in his turn, lauded the Belarus-China friendship and cooperation as well as China's great achievements in development.

The prime minister said he believes the Chinese dream is consistent with the dreams of all the people around the world for a good life.

He wished the Chinese people would realize the Chinese dream under the leadership of the CPC, and make greater contribution to world peace and the progress of mankind.

Belarus is also committed to reform and opening up, Myasnikovich said, adding that the eastern European country hopes to learn from China and step up high-level interactions and practical cooperation with China.

He reiterated Belarus' firm support for China on major issues involving sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Belarus stands ready to make joint efforts with China to make the international order more fair and rational, he added.

Myasnikovich arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a five-day official visit to China.