Hu, also a member of the Political Bureau Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, was speaking while meeting with Phan Dien, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee.

Hu pointed to the substantial development of Sino-Vietnamese relations in recent years, hailing, in particular, the successful exchange of visits between leaders of the two parties and their wide-ranging important consensus on the further development of bilateral relations.

Hu said Sino-Vietnamese friendship was valued by both countries and their peoples, and it was in the fundamental interest of the two countries and their peoples to maintain mutual trust and support, and to encourage more cooperation and common development.

Phan said the development momentum of bilateral relations was good and the consensus was being implemented.

His visit to China was aimed at furthering friendship and cooperation, added Phan.

He said Vietnam hoped to enhance mutual trust, and exchanges and cooperation in different fields, and handle affairs in the spirit of "good neighbors" and "good partners."

Phan expressed his admiration for China's achievements, saying that the 16th National Congress of the CPC was significant for the development of the CPC and the building of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

(Xinhua News Agency September 12, 2002)