Vacaroiu said Romania and China enjoy a close relationship and that the peoples of the two countries share a long-standing friendship. Bilateral relations have been growing smoothly in recent years, he said.

Vacaroiu said leaders of the two countries have maintained regular dialogues, while the legislatures of the two countries have carried out continuous exchanges.

The two countries have conducted vigorous cooperation in such fields as politics, economy and culture and maintained close cooperation on international issues, Vacaroiu said.

All these efforts have greatly helped promote bilateral ties, he said.

Vacaroiu said Romania regards China as a true friend and sincere partner for cooperation. He pledged continued efforts to consolidate the traditional friendship, expand trade and economic cooperation and push for the development of bilateral ties.

Vacaroiu spoke highly of China's achievements in the past three decades, as China has been carrying out the policy of reform and opening up. He also expressed his appreciation for the huge effort the Chinese government and people have made in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Jia also briefed the host about the Chinese government's stance on the Taiwan issue and issues concerning Tibet.

Vacaroiu said the Romanian government and parliament will always firmly adhere to the one China policy, believing that Taiwan and Tibet are inseparable parts of China. He expressed the wish for an early reunification of China.

Jia thanked the Romanian side for its firm stance on issues concerning China's sovereignty and core interests.

After the talks, Jia and Vacaroiu attended the signing ceremony for a number of agreements and contracts between the two governments and companies of the two countries.

Jia arrived in Bucharest Sunday for an official goodwill visit to Romania, the first leg of his four-nation Europe tour. Jia is also scheduled to visit Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia.

(Xinhua News Agency May 6, 2008)