Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian said that the visit of Socrates Hasikos,the first Cypriot defense minister to visit China, will contribute to the development of China-Cyprus friendship and cooperation.
Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, made the remark in Beijing Monday in talks with Hasikos.
Chi said that China and Cyprus have maintained all-round communication since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1971, and their bilateral relations have been progressing well in recent years.
Chi said that the visit of Cypriot President Glafcos Clerides to China in 1999 and the visit of Chinese Vice-President Hu Jintaoto Cyprus early in 2001 promoted Sino-Cypriot friendly cooperativeties to a new level.
Chi also briefed the guests on China's views on the international and regional situations, China's economic development and military construction, as well as the stances of the Chinese government on the issues of Taiwan and anti-terrorism.
He added that the Chinese side is keen to make joint efforts with the Cypriot friends to further their bilateral friendly ties in the new century.
Hasikos introduced to Chi the domestic situation of Cyprus and his country's efforts to join the European Union.
He said that he believed that this, his first visit to China would help the development of Cyprus-China relations..
Hasikos voiced appreciation for the role that the Chinese government has played on the international arena, expressing his hope for Cyprus to continue communication and cooperation with China in various fields.
(Xinhua News Agency January 22, 2002)
