Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, spoke highly of the good-neighborly ties of mutual understanding, trust and support between China and Bangladesh.

He said the Chinese government values the China-Bangladesh friendship, and attaches great importance to bilateral friendly relationship of cooperation.

He expressed appreciation for Bangladesh's firm support to China on many issues, including those on Taiwan, Tibet and human rights.

Azam said after the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties, the friendly relations between the two countries in various sectors have been proceeding in a smooth way, while contacts of the two armies have been frequent.

He also thanked the Chinese People's Liberation Army for its support and assistance to the Bangladesh army in its modernization drive, saying the Bangladesh government and army will make every effort to promote bilateral friendly relations.

(Xinhua News Agency August 22, 2002)