The two leaders exchanged views on the current international situation and bilateral ties, discussed issues of common concern and reached a wide consensus during their talks, according to the communique.

Despite the dramatic changes in the international and domestic situations in recent years, the document says, the two sides have consistently observed the principles of mutual respect, equity and mutual benefit and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, as well as other recognized norms of international law.

The document states that the two countries demonstrate respect for each other's choice of social system and development strategy, support and cooperate with each other to ensure the steady growth of bilateral relations and the enhancement of mutual political trust. The two countries are satisfied with these developments.

The two sides reiterate they will adhere to the Sino-Moldovan joint statement signed by Jiang and Voronin in July 2001, and to other principles set forth in the relevant documents.

The two sides pledge to continue high-level exchanges and support exchanges between the two governments and parliaments, and between political parties, localities and non-governmental organizations. The two sides will fully tap their own potential to deepen communication and cooperation in politics, trade and economy, science and technology, culture, education, the military and tourism in order to raise bilateral ties to a new level.

They believe that economic and trade cooperation constitutes an important and integral aspect of bilateral ties. The deepening of mutually beneficial economic ties is consistent with the fundamental interests of the two countries and is conducive to their economic and social development.

To further expand economic and trade links, the two sides stand willing to make full use of the macro-regulating functions of economic departments in accordance with the rules of the market economy and within the framework of the World Trade Organization.

The two sides will make efficient use of the mixed committee mechanism so as to create better conditions and convenience for enterprises through more extensive consultations and communication.

The two sides will also cooperate and share expertise for the setup of the special economic zones.

China appreciates the achievements made by Moldova in economic recovery and social progress, the communique says.

China supports Moldova's desire to participate in European integration and to play a more important role in regional and international issues.

China understands and supports Moldova's endeavors to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and eventually resolve the issue of trans-Dniestria.

China also supports Moldova's firm actions to fight against separatism, and holds the operation is an important contribution to regional peace and stability.

Moldova appreciates China's broad achievements since the start of its reform and opening-up campaign, and greatly admires China's significant role and important contribution to peace, cooperation and development in Asia and in the world at large.

Moldova reiterates that there is only one China in the world, the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China and Taiwan is an integral part of Chinese territory.

Moldova will continue to adhere to the one-China stance and will not establish any official ties or official contacts with Taiwan.

Moldova does not support Taiwan's entry into any international organization comprised of sovereign states.

Both sides agree that the world, which has seen complex and profound changes, is increasingly multi-polar in nature.

The two sides support global diversity, the democratization of international relations, and the free election of development strategies.

All states, big or small, rich or poor, strong or weak, are but equal members of the international community and have equal rights to take part in world affairs.

All countries worldwide should carry out consultation and dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, enhance cooperation and peacefully coexist for of common development.

The two sides also exchanged views on international affairs and urgent regional issues.

The two sides believe that the United Nations, which remains the most universal inter-governmental international organization, has made an active contribution to the maintenance of world peace and security and to the promotion of cooperation and development among all countries. The two countries are satisfied with their fruitful cooperation within the UN framework.

The two sides emphasize the important and leading role that the UN and the Security Council play in preventing and combating terrorist activities, enhancing international cooperation in a planned and gradual manner, and uprooting terrorism.

(Xinhua News Agency February 25, 2003)