Chinese President Hu Jintao said in Beijing Saturday that China will strive to expand and deepen bilateral ties with Fiji and make the Sino-Fijian ties an example of relationship between China and South Pacific countries featuring equality, friendship and mutual-beneficial cooperation.

Hu told Fijian Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase in the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing that Sino-Fijian relations witnessed constant growth since the forging of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 1975.

Exchanges between the top leaders, parliaments and parties of the two nations became frequent and active, Hu acknowledged.

The two sides also witnessed increased trade and fruitful mutual-beneficial cooperation and growing exchanges and cooperation in culture, education and tourism.

Hu ascribed all this to three main factors: In terms of politics, the two sides respect and trust each other and do not interfere with the other's internal affairs; and the two economies were reciprocal and reached common development.

On international affairs, both countries abide by the principles enshrined in the United Nations' Charter and other recognized basic rules on international relations and they are both striving to promote regional and world peace, stability and development, he said.

On the Taiwan issue, Hu said the issue concerns China's sovereignty and territory integrity and Chinese national feelings as well. China appreciates the Fijian government's adherence to the one-China policy and support to China's reunification strive.

"We expect for more firm and clear-cut support from you in the future," the Chinese president said.

Laisenia Qarase agreed with Hu's remarks on bilateral relations, saying that Fiji appreciates China's support in numerous aspects and will strengthen exchanges with China at all levels and expand bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, tourism and fishery.

Fiji will firmly adhere to the one-China policy and supports China's efforts in promoting relations with South Pacific countries, he said.

Laisenia Qarase arrived in Beijing at noon Saturday for a working visit to China. Besides Beijing, he will also travel to Qingdao, a coastal city in the east China's province of Shandong and Tianjin municipality to the east of Beijing. 

(Xinhua News Agency June 26, 2005)