Hu Meets Armenian Defense Minister

Hu Meets Armenian Defense Minister

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Chinese government will, on the basis of mutual respect, equality, reciprocity and non- interference in each other's internal affairs, raise the friendly and cooperative relations between China and Armenia and their armed forces to a new high.

Hu Jintao, Chinese vice-president and vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks here Wednesday in a meeting with visiting Armenian Defense Minister Serzh Sarkisyan.

Hu said there is a traditional friendship between the two peoples, and since the two countries forged diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have had a sound and steady development. Bilateral cooperation in politics, economy, science and technology has continuously expanded, he said.

Noting that there are no fundamental conflicts of interest between the two sides, Hu pointed out that to further Sino- Armenian friendship and cooperation is not only in the best interest of the two peoples, but also conducive to regional peace and stability.

Hu voiced his appreciation for Armenian government's "one-China " stance.

Hu also briefed the visitors on China's principled position on the Taiwan issue and anti-terrorism.

Sarkisyan said Armenian people cherish a deep friendship for Chinese people, admire the Chinese people's great achievements in the reform and opening-up drive, and wish Chinese people further accomplishments.

He stressed that the Armenian government attaches importance to its relations with China, saying that bilateral relations have developed well and bilateral cooperation in various fields has seen continuous progress, although China is big while Armenia is small.

Meanwhile, the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two armed forces have been furthered, added Sarkisyan.

He reiterated the Armenian government's "one-China" policy, holding that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China.