Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), met in Beijing Wednesday with Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

 

Jia said China and the Maldives had strengthened political, trade and tourism cooperation in accordance with the five principles of peaceful co-existence, and maintained coordination on regional and international affairs.

 

China would adhere to a friendly policy towards Maldives despite changes in international circumstances, he said.

 

Jia expressed appreciation for the contribution of Gayoom on promoting Sino-Maldivian relations, saying China was ready to work with the Maldives to develop the relationship.

 

He said the CPPCC would enhance cooperation with the Maldivian parliament to contribute to the development of relations.

 

Gayoom said the Maldives would continue its one-China policy. The two heads of the states had reached an agreement on expanding cooperation, laying a solid foundation for the development of Sino-Maldivian relations.

 

He vowed to work with China to enhance bilateral relations.

 

(Xinhua News Agency September 13, 2006)