Chinese President Jiang Zemin said in Beijing Tuesday that China is consistently opposed to the power politics and hegemonism in the international arena.

He's remarks came in his meeting with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tarik Aziz.

Jiang said that the world is developing towards a multi-polar society and the world should be a colorful one.

He also expressed sympathy over the suffering of the Iraqi people caused by the long-term sanctions imposed on them.

A just and rational solution to the Iraqi issue at an early date is conducive to the peace and stability in the Gulf region and to the progress and development of the world as a whole, he stated, adding that Iraq should take measures to effect the removal of sanctions.

Jiang spoke highly of the great civilizations of both China and Iraq, saying the two civilizations have added a glorious chapter in the history of global civilizations.

China is ready to further enhance and develop its friendly and cooperative relations with Iraq and confident about the expansion and growth of such ties, Jiang noted.

Aziz conveyed Iraqi leaders' greetings to Jiang and handed over to Jiang a letter from Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. He also gave a briefing on the recent development in his country and the efforts made by the Iraqi government to help lift sanctions.

Aziz appreciated China's constructive and positive stand on the just cause of Iraq on multi-lateral occasions including the role China played in the UN Security Council.

Iraq cherishes its relationship with China, favors the multi- polar world concept advocated by China and hoped Iraqi-Chinese relations could be further consolidated and advanced, the deputy prime minister said.

Aziz and his party are here at the invitation of the Chinese government.

(Xinhua 11/28/2000)