Chi, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said that China and Saudi Arabia have conducted cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1990.

Chinese President Jiang Zemin's visit to Saudi Arabia last year played an important role in promoting Sino-Saudi Arabian friendly relations, he said, adding that the military relations between China and Saudi Arabia have also been promoted in recent years.

Chi expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's support of the One-China stance. He voiced the hope that Sultan's visit will further promote the friendly relations between the two states and armed forces.

He also noted that the just-concluded China-Africa Cooperation Forum -- Ministerial Conference Beijing 2000 was successful, and has fueled the relations between China and other developing countries, including the African countries.

Chi expounded on the Chinese government's view on the international situation, its principled stance on the Taiwan issue,and army building.

Sultan said that the cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China conforms to the common interest of the two sides. He voiced the hope that Saudi Arabia and China will continue to develop the friendly relations in all fields.

(People’s Daily 10/13/2000)