Zhu said in a recorded video statement that the Chinese Government strongly condemned the September 11 terror attacks on the United States, while sending condolences to the victims.

He said China would strengthen co-operation with the international society in fighting terrorism on the basis of the UN Charter and international law, in a bid to safeguard world peace and stability.

In the past 30-odd years, Zhu said Sino-US relations have achieved historic progress, bringing huge benefits to the two peoples, as well as peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and the world.

Today, China and the United States share common interests and responsibilities in combating terrorism and international crimes, tackling problems - including worsening environment - ensuring peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and the world, and promoting sound regional and global growth, he said.

He stressed China would increase exchanges and understanding with the US, while making efforts to develop constructive relations of co-operation, based on the three joint communiques signed between the two countries.

Zhu said the upcoming meeting between President Jiang Zemin and his US counterpart George W. Bush in Shanghai will be of great importance, which is expected to help improve the development of the Sino-US relations.

Meanwhile, he said he hoped the US National Committee on US-China Relations and friends from all circles in the United States would continue to make contributions to the improvement of bilateral ties.

( China Daily 10/04/2001)