Chinese Defence Minister Holds Talks with British CounterpartDefence Minister Chi Haotian held talks Monday with British Secretary of State for Defence Geoff Hoon.Chi, who is also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a State Councilor, said that Hoon's first visit to China as the British Secretary of State for Defence will further friendly cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries. He briefed the guests on China's domestic situation and China's views on international and Asia-Pacific issues. He reiterated the Chinese government's position on the Taiwan issue, saying that the Chinese government adheres to the "peaceful reunification, and one country, two systems" principle. But, China does not promise to give up the use of force, he stressed. He said that the Chinese government and people have the determination, capability, and appropriate means to safeguard the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and realize the reunification of the motherland. Hoon said that China has made considerable contributions to the global peace and stability. He expressed his hope that China, as a very important member of the international community, would play an even bigger role in maintaining world peace and stability. He said that the British government is willing to work with China to push forward bilateral ties. On the Taiwan issue, Hoon said that the British government's position has not changed, and will not change. He said that the Taiwan issue is the internal affairs of China and should be resolved by the people across the Taiwan straits themselves. Prior to the talks, Chi held a welcoming ceremony for Hoon who arrived here earlier today at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart for a three-day goodwill visit. |
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