Chinese Defense Minister Meets Sierra Leone GuestsChinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian met Monday with Samuel Hinga Norman, deputy defense minister of the Republic of Sierra Leone and his party.Chi, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said that Chinese and Sierra Leone people have enjoyed profound friendship although the two countries are far apart. He said that as developing countries, China and Sierra Leone have shared common ground on many major international issues, adding that the development of Sino-Sierra Leone relations conforms to the fundamental interest of the two peoples and benefits regional and world peace, stability and development. Chi expressed the appreciation for the efforts made by the government headed by Sierra Leone President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah in the restoration of stability and economy of the country, and the realization of ethnic reconciliation. Chi voiced his belief that Norman's current visit will further friendly relations between the two countries and two armed forces. Chi also reaffirmed the Chinese government's stance on the Taiwan issue, and Norman said that Sierra Leone will continue to support the "one China" principle. Norman expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government for aid to Sierra Leone, and said that he will make efforts to promote relations between the two states and armed forces. Prior to the meeting, Xiong Guangkai, deputy chief of the General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, held talks with Norman. |
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