Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and Vanuatu's Deputy Prime Minister Sato Kilman held official talks Tuesday in Beijing, pledging to expand cooperative ties.

"Despite the twists and turns in 2004, China-Vanuatu relations continue to improve thanks to the joint efforts of both sides," Tang told Kilman, who is also minister of foreign affairs of Vanuatu.

"China values its relations with Vanuatu and hopes the two sides will keep high-level contacts, expand mutual-beneficial economic and trade cooperation, improve coordination and communication in international and regional affairs, and push bilateral ties to new heights," Tang said.

China-Vanuatu relations encountered a short period of difficulty in November 2004, when former Prime Minister Serge Vohor signed a formal diplomatic recognition agreement with Taiwanin Taipei on Nov. 3 during a secret visit seeking funds there.

In December Ham Lini, former deputy prime minister of Vanuatu, was appointed new prime minister of the country, after a vote of no confidence in Vohor, who had been criticized for his erratic rule and recognition of Taiwan despite the country's one-China policy.

Kilman said Vanuatu cherishes its relations and friendship with China and will firmly adhere to the one-China policy.

He said the development of China-Vanuatu relations benefit the people of Vanuatu and his government is dedicated to promoting comprehensive cooperative ties with China.

(Xinhua News Agency January 19, 2005)