Chinese Foreign Minister Held Talks with Latvian Counterpart

Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan held talks here today with his Latvian counterpart Indulis Berzins. The two sides exchanged views on bilateral relations and international issues of common concern.

Tang said that China is one of the earliest countries to recognize Latvia's independence and established diplomatic ties with Latvia.

China has always supported Latvia's efforts in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, Tang noted.

He said that the bilateral relations between the two countries have been progressing well since 1994.

China and Latvia smoothly concluded the bilateral agreement on China's entry into the World Trade Organization not long ago, Tang said, adding that it has provided an even more broader prospect for furthering economic and trade relations, as well as cooperation between the two sides on international issues.

Tang said that Sino-Latvian relations have got off to a good beginning at the turn of the new century. He said that he believes the two countries will expand bilateral cooperation in various areas.

Tang also proposed some detailed suggestions on pushing forward relations between the two countries.

Berzins said that the Chinese people are good friends of the Latvian people, and developing relations with China is an important part of Latvia's foreign affairs.

Latvia always remembers China's strong support shortly after Latvia became an independent country, Berzins said.

Latvia is willing to maintain and develop friendly cooperation with China, Berzins said, adding that he hopes the two sides will conduct more exchange and cooperation in broader areas, including the non-governmental area.

Berzins said that economic cooperation between the two countries has great potential.

He said that Latvia will continue to implement the one-China policy and will not develop official or semi-official relations with Taiwan.

Berzins is here on an official visit to China at the invitation of Tang. During his stay in China, he is scheduled to meet with Chinese government leaders and visit Xi'an and Shanghai.



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