Li Peng Holds Talks with Croatian President

Li Peng Holds Talks with Croatian President

Li Peng, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC), held talks with Croatian President Stjepan Mesic Friday.

Extending a warm welcome to Li, Mesic said Croatia is a small European country while China is a big country in the world, their cooperation is a good example for cooperation between big and small countries on the basis of equality.

Li said China is satisfied with the smooth growth of bilateral relations with Croatia, adding China is willing to push their relations to a new level.

Mesic briefed li on Croatia's relevant policy on seeking entry into the European Union.

Li said the tendency of the multi-polarization of the world is growing and China hopes Europe will become an important pole which will play a positive role in maintaining world peace and stability and promoting common development. "We understand Croatia's policy on working for joining the European integration process," he added.

Mesic said he hopes this region where Croatia is situated is peaceful and countries in this region are friendly to each other.

Li said China respects independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the various countries in the former Yugoslav area, stands for peaceful settlement of disputes, and expands friendly relations and cooperation with them on an equal footing.

On behalf of Chinese President Jiang Zemin, Li invited Mesic to visit China. Mesic accepted the invitation.