China and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) signed agreements in Beijing Wednesday on promoting cooperation between ICRC and China in international humanitarian course.

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and ICRC President Jakob Kellenberger signed an agreement between the Chinese government and the ICRC, and a Memorandum of Understanding between the two sides on the functions and responsibilities of the ICRC in China.

In his meeting with Kellenberger, Li spoke highly of ICRC's role and its active contribution to the international humanitarian cause, expressing his satisfaction over the friendly cooperative ties between China and ICRC.

He expressed his welcome to the ICRC setting up a representative office in China, and said he hopes the two sides can strengthen cooperation and make joint efforts to promote the development of international humanitarian cause.

Kellenberger appreciated China's long-term support for the ICRC. He said the ICRC values the roles of the Chinese government and Red Cross Society of China, expressing his hope that the two sides will beef up exchanges and cooperation, and join hands to promote the development of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

ICRC, founded in 1863 in Geneva, is an independent institution of a private character. It plays an important part in providing medical aid and emergency food supplies in many countries, inspecting prison conditions and tracing missing persons.
 
(Xinhua News Agency July 21, 2005)