During the meeting between Zhu and Yalla, Zhu said China appreciates and is grateful to Guinea Bissau for valuing its ties with China and for adhering to the one-China policy.

Relations between China and Guinea Bissau have been advancing smoothly, the premier said, adding that the two countries have cooperated effectively in such fields as agriculture, fisheries, construction, machinery, culture, education and health care.

The Chinese government values its traditional friendly cooperative ties with Guinea Bissau and is willing to join hands with this nation to explore new possibilities and approaches for cooperation in order to expand overall bilateral cooperation, the premier said.

He said he believes that the president's current visit will deepen his understanding of China and boost the friendly cooperation between China and Guinea Bissau.

Zhu also briefed the president on the 16th National Congress of the Communist Party of China as well as on China's achievements in the areas of reform and opening up to the rest of the world, adding that China will continue to join hands with developing countries in the international arena.

Yalla extended his thanks for China's long-standing assistance to Guinea Bissau, noting that it was China that offered sincere assistance when Guinea Bissau was faced with the most difficult obstacles in its struggle for national independence.

The people of Guinea Bissau consider the Chinese people as comrades and friends, the president said, adding that his government has decided to correct its past errors in handling its relations with China and return to the correct track of friendly relations.

Guinea Bissau will respect history, respect friends and value its friendship with China, he said, stressing that his country will firmly adhere to the one-China policy.

Yalla is in China for a six-day working visit as the guest of Chinese President Jiang Zemin.

(Xinhua News Agency December 18, 2002)