At a meeting with Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov in the Turkmen capital of Ashkhabad, visiting Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing proposed strengthening links through such means as increased high-level visits to promote mutual political trust, improved coordination in international affairs to support mutual interests, and closer cooperation in economy, trade and culture.

Meredov agreed with Li's proposals. He also stated that Turkmenistan supports China's position on the issues of Taiwan and Tibet and backs its fight against the "Eastern Turkistan" terrorist groups. He said Turkmenistan adheres to the one-China policy and opposes Taiwan's entry into any international organizations that accept only sovereign countries as members.

The two also discussed regional and international situations.

In a separate meeting with Turkmen President Saparmurad Atayevich Niyazov, Li noted that the two countries share broad interests in safeguarding each other's sovereignty and developing their economies. China hopes to work with Turkmenistan to bolster their friendly relations, he said.

Niyazov spoke highly of the bilateral ties and China's economic achievements. He said that during his two visits to China he was greatly impressed by the enormous changes taking place. Turkmenistan appreciates China's decision to tailor its development to suit its situation and needs. Niyazov thanked China for its respect of Turkmenistan's domestic and foreign policies.

The president said that the results of cooperation between the two countries in textiles, energy, transport and communications are encouraging, and Turkmenistan hopes to see more exchanges and cooperation with China in all fields.

Niyazov and Li later attended a ceremony to sign bilateral agreements on economic cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency October 21, 2004)