Premier Zhu Rongji said the Chinese Government treasures its traditional friendship with Tanzania, and is ready to make concerted efforts with the Tanzanian Government to push forward bilateral ties.
Zhu made the remarks Thursday when meeting with visiting Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation Jakaya Kikwete.
He expressed his appreciation for Tanzania's consistent and firm support for China on major issues like Taiwan and Tibet.
He voiced his appreciation for Tanzania's positive role in promoting unity and co-operation among developing countries, and safeguarding African peace and stability.
Kikwete spoke highly of the traditional Tanzania-China friendship and co-operation, and said Tanzanian leaders, government and people have always viewed China as their best friend, hoping for further developments in bilateral co-operation.
He said his country is concentrating on economic reform, and has adopted preferential policies in a bid to create a better environment for more foreign investment.
He reiterated that the Tanzanian Government will adhere to the one-China principle and support China on major issues like human rights.
He said Tanzanian leaders and the government highly appreciate China's settlement of the air collision incident with the US and support China's position.
(Chinadaily.com.cn 06/08/2001)