President Hu Jintao said China would like to join
hands with Venezuela to bring their strategic partnership to a
higher level. He was speaking on Thursday while meeting the
visiting Venezuelan president, Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias, in
Beijing.
Hu said that the two countries have enhanced mutual
understanding and political trust, expanded trade and economic
cooperation and supported each other in international affairs.
He added that the government thanks Venezuela for
its adherence to the one-China policy, and appreciates and welcomes
its recognition of China's full market economy status.
Chavez said that relations have been consolidated
in the 30 years since diplomatic ties were established. There has
been fruitful cooperation in the economy, culture and science and
technology.
He said his government and people thank China for
its help in economic and social development.
Hu suggested that the two countries expand
cooperation for mutual benefit, launch cooperative mining projects,
and in agriculture, infrastructure construction and high
technology. They should also better coordinate and cooperate in
international and regional affairs for world peace, stability and
development.
Chavez said he agreed, adding that the Venezuelan
government believes exchanges and cooperation will benefit both
countries in their development.
Chavez arrived on Thursday morning for a five-day
state visit, his third to China.
(Xinhua News Agency December 23, 2004)
