In discussing the Iraq issue, Tang said the Chinese government believed that five principles should be upheld in reconstruction in Iraq after the war.

First, the political independence, unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq should be respected and preserved;

Second, the post-war arrangements and other issues including economic reconstruction should be conducted within the UN framework, giving full play to the United Nations' important role;

Third, the will of the Iraqi people and their choice about their future should be fully respected;

Fourth, all nations' legitimate interests in Iraq should be respected and protected; and

Fifth, the resolution of the Iraq issue should help promote long-term peace and stability in the Middle-east and in the Gulf region, especially in Iraq.

Tang and Svilanovic also discussed bilateral relations. Tang said that, irrespective of changes in the international and domestic state of affairs, China's policy of developing friendly and cooperative relations with Serbia and Montenegro will remain unchanged. China respects Serbia and Montenegro's sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as its efforts to integrate into Europe.

Svilanovic said that his government is grateful for China's valuable support and assistance in past years and that it will continue to develop relations with China. Serbia and Montenegro insists on the "One China" policy.

(Xinhua News Agency April 19, 2003)