China attaches high importance to the Organization of American States (OAS) and has been making unremitting efforts to promote cooperation and relations between the two sides, said Zhou Wenzhong, Chinese ambassador to the United States, in remarks at the dialogue between the OAS and OAS permanent observers on Sunday.  

Zhou said he wishes to take the opportunity to express thanks to the OAS and its members for adhering to the one-China policy.

"It is universally recognized by the international community that there is only one China in the world, and that Taiwan is part of China. Reunification of the mainland and Taiwan is the common aspiration of all the Chinese people. It is an irresistible trend that accords with our times," Zhou said.

Since China became the permanent observer of the OAS about one year ago, China has signed the Agreement of China-OAS Cooperation Fund and launched a series of cooperation projects with the OAS. China also provides four scholarships a year to OAS members and China will contribute another US$60,000 to the information seminar held by the OAS in preparation for the coming Americans summit, Zhou said.

"As a developing country, China is ready to develop a relationship featuring mutual benefit, friendship and cooperation with all countries in this region regardless whether they have diplomatic ties with us or not," Zhou said.

"China stands ready to continue its exchanges and dialogue with all levels with the OAS members and the Secretariat in political, economic, cultural and other fields, share developments experience and stand up together to meet the challenges," he said.

Furthermore, Zhou said China hopes to become a bridge for the America and Asia in their efforts to further expand cooperation and play a vigorous role in the common development of the two continents.

The OAS, which has 35 member states and 60 permanent observers, opened its annual General Assembly meetings in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Sunday evening.

(Xinhua News Agency June 6, 2005)