China attaches great importance to the promotion of friendly cooperation with Portugal and is willing to continue the efforts, said visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing on Friday.
The minister made the remarks when meeting with Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso.
Li said the two countries enjoy good relations. He thanked Portugal for its "one China" policy and its support on issues like Taiwan, Tibet and human rights.
Both trade and exchanges in science and technology, culture and education are on the rise, Li said, adding that the two countries have good cooperation in international organizations including the United Nations.
Barroso said Portugal would continue its efforts to promote bilateral relations as well as the European Union's cooperation with China, noting that China is Portugal's true friend and the two countries have extensive common interests.
The prime minister also congratulated China on the progress it has made in the fight against SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and China's significant economic achievements.
He pledged that his government would stick to its "one China" policy.
On the same day, Li also held talks with his Portuguese counterpart, Antonio Manuel de Mendonca Martins da Cruz.
The two ministers agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international organizations as well as in such fields as business, culture, science, agriculture and health care.
They also exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula's nuclear issue, Iraq and the Middle East.
Li arrived Thursday evening for a two-day visit to the European country.
(Xinhua News Agency June 28, 2003)
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