Leaders from China, Tajikistan and Ukraine Friday called for closer
bilateral relations on the 10th anniversary of the establishment of
diplomatic ties between China and the two countries.
In
his letter of congratulations to Tajikistan President Emomali
Rakhmonov, President Jiang Zemin said bilateral ties were in the
fundamental interests of both countries as well as conducive to the
security, stability and development of the region.
Rakhmonov said his government gives priority to developing
relations with China.
He
highlighted the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization,
saying China and Tajikistan - both members of the organization -
have made important contributions to the fight against
international terrorism, separatism and extremism.
He
also said the maintenance of regional peace and security and the
enhancement of trust and cooperation had developed smoothly.
While writing to Ukraine President Leonid Kuchma yesterday, Jiang
said both countries have followed the principles of respecting each
other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in
each other's internal affairs, equality and reciprocity, and
achieved sound and steady development in bilateral ties.
Kuchma responded by saying that great potential remains in
bilateral ties.
(China Daily January 6,
2002)