Than Shwe, chairman of the State Peace and Development Council, paid a six-day state visit to China on Jan. 6-11 at the invitation of Chinese President Jiang Zemin.

Myanmar and China have enjoyed close fraternal relations known as "paukphaw" since ancient times and share cultural affinities especially in the codes of moral conduct, such as respect for parents, teachers and elders, the journal said.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, the friendly ties, based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have been strengthened, it noted.

The two countries have supported and cooperated each other in international affairs and in the economic, trade and social sectors to the mutual benefit of both countries, it said, adding that "these friendly relations reached a new high since the tenure of the present Myanmar government."

The journal concluded that it is doubtless that the visit was a great success and was satisfactory to both parties concerned.

(Xinhua News Agency January 20, 2003)