Zhou Yongkang, a state councilor and minister of Public Security of China, met in Beijing Wednesday with Jose Lina, secretary of the Interior and Local Government of the Philippines.

The two discussed cooperation between the two countries in tackling transnational crimes, especially in cracking down on drugs trafficking.

Zhou said the Chinese and Philippine governments signed a memorandum of understanding in this field in 2001, paving a sound basis for further cooperation.

The eradication of drugs would benefit contemporary and future generations, he noted.

Zhou hoped to enhance the cooperation in cracking down on drugs trafficking and other transnational crimes to safeguard social stability and citizens' legitimate rights.

Lina said the Philippines attached great importance to developing cooperation with China, and pledged to enhance relations. 
 
(Xinhua News Agency August 7, 2003)