Vice Premier Qian Vows to Help US Fight Terrorism

In a telephone call with US Secretary of State Colin Powell, Chinese Vice Premier Qian Qichen backed Washington's declaration of war on terrorism.

It said Qian, one of China's top foreign policy maker, promised "enhanced cooperation" with Washington in fighting against terrorism.

"We have constantly opposed any kind of terrorism and we believe that the fight against terrorism needs cooperation of the international community," Qian told Powell.

"The Security Council of the United Nations has unanimously adopted a resolution condemning terrorism and we are willing to, together with the US side, enhance cooperation in this field," he said.

China has condemned Tuesday's attacks and offered its support and sympathy to the United States but called for cool-head. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Wang Guangya said on Thursday Beijing wanted to be consulted before Washington retaliated.

(chinadaily.com.cn 09/14/2001)