Benin reiterates its adherence to the one-China policy, according to the China-Benin Joint Communiqué issued in Beijing on Tuesday.

 

Benin recognizes the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory, the communiqué says.

 

Benin will oppose "Taiwan Independence" of any form and oppose Taiwan joining international organizations of sovereign nations, says the communiqué, adding that the western African country will not establish official relations with Taiwan.

 

President Thomas Boni Yayi of the Republic of Benin arrived in Beijing on Sunday on a seven-day state visit to China as guest of President Hu Jintao.

 

China and Benin, whose trade hit US$1.09 billion last year, up 58.65 percent year on year, also pledged to further deepen their trade ties to realize common development.

 

"China will encourage more Chinese enterprises to go to Benin to invest in such fields as agriculture, infrastructure, health and telecommunications," said the communiqué. "China will try its best to provide assistance for Benin."

 

Since 1972, China has provided US$200 million worth of aid to Benin, offering training programs and helping to develop fisheries, agriculture and industry and improve infrastructure.

 

(Xinhua News Agency August 30, 2006)