China is willing to continuously advance the development of its friendly relations with Libya, visiting Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said in Surt, Libyan leader Muammar Ghaddafi's hometown, on Wednesday.

 

At a meeting with Ghaddafi, Li said China will also boost the traditional friendship between the two peoples based on the principle of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

 

He expressed his appreciation of Libya's adherence to the one-China policy and opposition to "Taiwan independence."

 

Ghaddafi, for his part, said China is an important country in the world which plays a constructive role in promoting world peace, stability and development.

 

Libya attaches great importance to enhancing cooperation with China in various fields, and is ready to consolidate and develop the friendly ties between both countries, he added.

 

There is only one China in the world and Libya will unswervingly stick to the one-China policy, oppose "Taiwan independence," and support China's reunification cause, he said.

 

Whatever happens, Libya will never change its position on the Taiwan question, Ghaddafi noted.

 

He also exchanged views with Li on the international and regional situation.

 

They agreed that China and Libya should continue their consultations and cooperation in international affairs, jointly safeguard the interests of developing nations, and boost China's cooperation with African and Arab countries.

 

(Xinhua News Agency January 19, 2006)