China is ready to enhance political trust and economic cooperation with Micronesia in the new century based on mutual respect, equality, reciprocity and common prosperity, said Chinese President Hu Jintao in Beijing Tuesday. 

Hu told visiting Micronesian President Joseph J. Urusemal that the Sino-Micronesian relationship has developed smoothly since the two countries forged diplomatic ties 15 years ago, and the two countries have achieved fruitful cooperation on trade and the economic field as well as in international and regional affairs.

"Both China and Micronesia are developing countries, and China attaches importance to the friendly relations with Micronesia," said Hu.

Hu expressed his appreciation for the adherence of Micronesia on the one-China policy, and for its not having official relationship with Taiwan.

On the relations between China and the South-Pacific island countries, Hu said the situation in this region had remained stable. The relationship between China and the South-Pacific island countries as well as the regional organizations such as the Pacific Islands Forum have been enhanced, he said.

Hu said China supports the South-Pacific island countries' efforts on safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, developing their economies, as well as building up a nuclear-free zone, and is ready to work with the countries in this region to push forward healthy development of the relationship.

Urusemal said that China's long history and splendid culture had impressed him a lot on his visit. Micronesia and China have maintained friendly contacts since the two countries forged diplomatic ties, he said.

He expressed gratitude for the long-term aid from China to the Micronesian government and people, and expressed willingness to further cooperation in all fields with China. 

Urusemal reaffirmed that the Micronesian government adheres to the one-China policy.

He spoke highly of China's foreign policy in regional and international affairs, and was grateful for China's support of Micronesia's involvement in international and regional organizations.

After talks, the two sides signed an agreement on economic and scientific cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency March 24, 2004)