China-Georgia Ties Grow Smoothly, Vice-Premier

China-Georgia Ties Grow Smoothly, Vice-Premier

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Chinese Vice-Premier Li Lanqing said Wednesday in Beijing that China and Georgia have witnessed a smooth development in their relations since they forged diplomatic ties nine years ago.

During talks with visiting Georgian State Minister Giya Arsenishvili, Li said the Chinese government always attaches importance to its ties with Georgia and respects the social system and development path chosen by the Georgian people according to its own national conditions.

China also respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia, he said, expressing the belief that concerted efforts will further deepen and develop such bilateral relations built on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual trust.

Arsenishvili agreed with Li and said that Georgia is particularly satisfied at the positive changes in trade and economic exchanges between the two countries.

He said his current China visit is mainly aimed at exploring ways to expand bilateral cooperation in economic, trade, energy, agricultural, communications and other fields.

He expressed the hope that the two sides could reach agreement on certain projects during his visit.

Li, in reply, said that much can be done in bilateral cooperation in the spheres of economy, trade, energy, telecommunication, agriculture, science and technology, education and culture, and related departments of the two countries should establish direct links to boost the cooperation.

He suggested that a series of colorful cultural activities be staged to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the formation of diplomatic ties next year, and the cultural departments of the two countries should discuss how to organize these activities.

On the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, Li said such an incident has made the whole world understand that terrorism has become a major threat to world peace and stability.

The Chinese government is firmly against all forms of terrorist acts and is willing to work with all the countries around the world to increase cooperation against terrorism in line with the United Nations Charter, he said.

At the same time, Li stressed undeniable evidence is necessary before any battle against terrorism is launched so as to prevent the innocent from being harmed.

Arsenishvili said he fully agreed with Li in this respect.

The Georgian state minister arrived here today as guest of Li.