On bilateral relations, Zhu said that friendly relations of cooperation between the two countries have been developing steadily since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975.

Leaders of the two countries and people from different walks of life have had frequent exchanges in recent years, and mutual understanding and friendship have developed further.

"This demonstrates that it is the common understanding of the two governments and peoples to promote Sino-Samoan relations," he said, citing the fruitful cooperation in the areas of politics, the economy, trade, culture, education and sports.

Sino-Somoan trade volume saw a sharp increase in the first half of this year, Zhu said, adding that the two countries are supplementary in the agricultural field.

China has a vast market and many applicable agro-technologies, while Samoa enjoys rich resources in fisheries and tourism. There exists promising prospect for bilateral cooperation, Zhu said.

In addition, he said, the two countries have had close cooperation in international and regional affairs. China is satisfied with the growth of bilateral ties.

Tuilaepa said that his China visit has been successful, and the Samoan government pays great attention to developing relations with China. The two countries have conducted good cooperation in political, economic and trade areas over the past years.

Samoa is fully prepared to promote mutually beneficial cooperation with China in the coming years, he said.

Zhu also praised the Samoan government's adherence to the One-China policy and its stance of not having official contact with Taiwan.

Prior to the talks, Zhu presided over a welcoming ceremony in honor of Tuilaepa, who arrived here Monday afternoon.

After the talks, the two prime ministers signed an agreement on economic and technological cooperation.

(People’s Daily 08/22/2000)