Vice-Premier Qian Qichen said in Beijing January 26 that China will support steps taken under United Nations guidelines to help East Timor smoothly complete its process of independence.

Qian said in a meeting with Jose Alexandre Xanana Gusmao, leader of the independence movement of East Timor and chairman of CNRT, that the situation in East Timor has stabilized thanks to the efforts made by the United Nations and relevant parties.

China appreciates CNRT's good-neighborly diplomatic policy, Qian said, adding that a smooth transition to East Timor's independence is in the interest of the people in the territory, and will serve regional peace, stability and development.

He said that developing relations with its neighbors is an important part of China's diplomacy, and this policy is also applicable to Sino-East Timorese relations.

China is willing to provide as much assistance as it can for East Timor in an effort to help the East Timorese people overcome temporary difficulties and rebuild their homeland.

Xanana, who is on the third day of a four-day visit to China, said that China is a trusted friend of the East Timorese people, and during the trip, he felt the friendly sentiment of the Chinese people for the East Timorese people. He added that East Timor is facing the task of rebuilding its homeland, and China's support has encouraged the East Timorese people in their reconstruction

efforts.

He also expressed thanks for China's participation in the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor by sending civilian policemen and officials.

Xanana reiterated that East Timor will adhere to the one China policy, and Qian thanked him for that.