The Chinese government is ready to make concerted efforts with the Republic of Congo to enhance political exchanges and expand trade and economic cooperation, said Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Beijing Friday.  

Li made the remarks during talks with Rodolphe Adada, minister of foreign affairs, cooperation and French affairs of the Republic of Congo.

Li said China and the Republic of Congo celebrate their 40th forging anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, and the people of the two countries always share sincere cooperation with equal treatment.

China is willing to work together with the Republic of Congo to constantly add new content into the bilateral relations, Li said.

Adada cited the friendly cooperation between the two countries as a fine example for the country-to-country relations, and said the government and people of the Republic of Congo appreciated China for the help it had provided in varied forms in the past long time.

The Republic of Congo is willing to move the bilateral ties to a new high under the framework of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, he added.

Adada reiterated that his country will go on adhering to the one-China policy, oppose the so-called "referendum" in Taiwan, and firmly support China in such issues as human rights.

During their talks, both sides conferred on bilateral relations and issues of common concern.

Adada arrived in Beijing Thursday for an official visit to China at the invitation of Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.

(Xinhua News Agency March 26, 2004)