Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh on Saturday had talks with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing over bilateral relations and issues of mutual concerns.  

During the meeting, Li said China and Yemen support each other in maintaining the sovereignty of states, national unification and economic development.

The traditional friendship between the two countries dates back to the 6th century, Li said, adding that they both experienced the same suffering in the past and now share the common task of development.

Meanwhile, the top Chinese diplomat thanked the Yemeni leader for his country's support for China in the Taiwan and human rights issues.

China is willing to work with Yemen to push bilateral friendly ties forward, he said.

For his part, Saleh said Yemeni-Sino ties are traditional and ever-developing. He thanked China for supporting his country under diverse circumstances as well as supporting its development and construction efforts.

Saleh affirmed that Yemen is committed to the one-China principle, supports China's unification effort and opposes the "independence of Taiwan."

During his visit, Li also met with other Yemeni leaders, including Prime Minister Abdul Qader ba Jammal, on bilateral cooperation, Chinese investment in Yemen and international and regional issues.

The Chinese foreign minister concluded a visit to Yemen on Saturday following a three-day official visit.

(Xinhua News Agency September 12, 2004)