Micronesian President Joseph J. Urusemal met with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Wellington on Sunday to discuss relations between their two countries.

 

During the meeting, both Urusemal and Li expressed satisfaction over the development of bilateral relations as well as political and economic cooperation between China and Micronesia.

 

Li said that over the past 17 years since China and Micronesia established diplomatic relations, the two countries have increased official exchanges, strengthened political mutual trust, helped with each other's economies, and cooperated successfully in dealing with international and regional issues.

 

China appreciates Micronesia's adherence to the one-China policy, and hopes to further promote dialogue, strengthen mutual trust, enlarge cooperation with Micronesia, so that the two countries can realize common development, Li said.

 

Speaking on the same occasion, Urusemal hailed the smooth development of bilateral ties. He expressed agreement with Li's statement that relations between the two countries have developed steadily, and that bilateral cooperation has become increasingly close.

 

The Micronesian government cherishes friendly relations with China, and is grateful to China's support and assistance, Urusemal said.

 

Micronesia will continue to firmly pursue the one-China policy, and is willing to deepen cooperation with China in various fields, including tourism and personnel exchanges, the president said.

 

During his visit, Li also held talks with his Micronesian counterpart Sebastian Anefal. The two discussed bilateral relations and other issues of common concern.

 

(Xinhua News Agency July 31, 2006)