President Hu Jintao spoke with US President George W. Bush over the phone on Monday evening, according to sources?from the Foreign Ministry.?

Bush thanked Hu for his congratulatory message, saying he will continue to promote bilateral cooperation during his second term. Bush reiterated that the US government will not change its stance on Taiwan.

 

Hu spoke highly of the progress in relations over the last few years, saying they would advance in a healthy and stable manner so long as both sides observe the principles enshrined in the three Sino-US joint communiqués.

 

Hu said China appreciated the US’ commitment to a One China policy and its opposition to forces lobbying for Taiwan independence.

 

The two heads of state pledged to further promote ties and said they were expecting to meet again during the upcoming 12th Economic Leaders' Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), sources said.

 

(Xinhua News Agency November 9, 2004)