Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields have brought sustained expansion since the two countries established diplomatic relations.

China values the cooperative ties between the two countries as well as those between the two armies. The development of good ties goes in line with the basic interests of the two peoples and is beneficial to regional and world peace and stability, Chi said.

He also made clear China's stand on the Taiwan issue.

Beydullayev said Azerbaijan and China have a "brotherly" friendship and Azerbaijan firmly adheres to the one-China policy.

Beydullayev also expressed the hope for the deepening of bilateral relations and expansion of cooperative fields.

(Xinhua News Agency August 8, 2002)