Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus and Prime Minister Algirdas Brazauskas Thursday met with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing separately on bilateral ties, according to reports from Vilnius, capital of Lithuania.

Adamkus hailed the relations between Lithuania and China, saying that good momentum has been maintained for the development of the ties in recent years.

He noted that there are no disputes between the two countries and the two sides have had good cooperation in international affairs.

Adamkus expressed the wish that the two countries would push the ties to a new high next year by seizing the opportunity of the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

The president said the two countries should strengthen trade and economic cooperation, adding that Lithuania is willing to provide better environment for Chinese companies. He hoped China could make full use of Lithuania's free trade zones and seaports.

Brazaukas said his 1993 China tour has left him good memories and his country is delighted to see China play a bigger role in international affairs.

Li said since China and Lithuania established diplomatic ties, the relationship has made steady development.

With bilateral trade exchanges increasing, Lithuania has become the biggest trading partner of China in the Baltic region, the top Chinese diplomat said.

China insists on taking the path of peaceful development, Li said, adding China's development will provide more opportunities for other countries, including Lithuania.

China highly approves and feels grateful for the Lithuanian government's consistent stance on the one-China policy, Li stressed.

In the same day, Li met his Lithuanian counterpart Antanas Valionis before the two held a joint press conference.

Source: Xinhua