Chinese President Jiang Zemin said in Beijing Thursday that economic cooperation between China and Jordan has been developing rapidly in a parallel way with their political ties increasingly being strengthened.
China's accession to the World Trade Organization will create new opportunities for economic cooperation and trade development between the two, Jiang said when meeting with visiting King Abdullah II Bin Al-Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Relating to the Taiwan issue, Jiang pointed out that the question of sovereignty and territorial integrity involves the national feelings of China's 1.3 billion people, including the Taiwan compatriots.
"The ultimate reunification of the motherland is our unshakable political goal," Jiang said. He also expressed appreciation for Jordan's consistent stance in adhering to the One-China principle.
As to the Middle East situation, Jiang said that China is concerned about the conflict escalation between Israel and Palestine and the turbulent situation in this region. China has been making positive efforts to ease the tension, he noted.
"China maintains that the only correct solution for the Middle East issue lies in the early resumption of peace talks as violence and armed conflict will only bring hatred and alienation," Jiang stressed.
He urged the international community to make greater efforts in this regard, and pledged China will work with the international community, especially the Arab countries, towards the promotion of an early settlement of the Middle East issue.
On anti-terrorism, Jiang reiterated China's stance against all forms of terrorism, saying China advocates international cooperation against terrorism, especially the role played by the United Nations.
China also stresses no double standards should be used in the fight against terrorism, Jiang said, pointing out that China is against random anti-terrorism strikes.
King Abdullah said that he shares many of China's views, or has similar views on the international affairs. He noted that China as an important member of the international community plays an important role in issues relating to anti-terrorism and the Middle East situation.
The Jordanian King, whose entourage includes many officials from the economic sector and business leaders, said he expects to explore in greater depth the potential of economic cooperation with China.
After the talks the two heads of state chaired a ceremony for the signing of agreements for economic cooperation and aid.
(Xinhua News Agency January 18, 2002)
