China is ready to make joint efforts with Guinea-Bissau to push forward bilateral relations in a long-term and stable manner, said Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Beijing Thursday.

In talks with Soares Sambu, minister of foreign affairs, international cooperation and overseas affairs of Guinea-Bissau, Li said the relations between the two countries have undergone smooth development since they reestablished diplomatic relations in 1998. The two countries have conducted effective cooperation in the fields of social development and international affairs, Li added.

China appreciates Guinea-Bissau's adherence to the one-China policy and its support for China's reunification cause, said Li.

Sambu thanked China for its years' assistance to Guinea-Bissau, saying that the two countries enjoy sound relations and share much in common.

The Guinea-Bissau government will strengthen and deepen cooperation with China in various fields, Sambu said.

He also reiterated the Guinea-Bissau government would continue to stick to the one-China policy.

(Xinhua News Agency June 4, 2004)