Chinese President Hu Jintao said Friday in Sydney that relations between China and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have witnessed steady growth since the two nations forged diplomatic ties 31 years ago.
Hu made the remarks during his meeting with PNG Prime Minister Michael Somare on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Sydney.
Politically, China and PNG share mutual respect and place each other on an equal footing, Hu said.
In the economic arena, the two sides, which have shown themselves to be economically compatible, have cooperated in a mutually beneficial way, he said.
Hu noted the frequent high-level exchanges in recent years, as well as expanding cooperation in trade, agricultural, health, cultural and educational areas, and close consultation and coordination in international and regional organizations such as the United Nations, APEC, and the Pacific Islands Forum.
PNG is China's most important trading partner in the Pacific islands and has been China's largest trading partner and investment destination in the region for years, Hu said. He added that the bilateral economic cooperation has been lifted to a new level with a strong momentum.
Hu said that China will continue to provide economic and technological aid within its capacity as part of the efforts to help in the island country's construction and development.
Somare said that PNG is delighted and proud to be China's friend and cooperative partner. The projects aided by China have played an important role in PNG's socio-economic development.
He also praised China's friendly cooperation with South Pacific nations and its contribution to development and people's welfare in the region.
He hoped the friendly and cooperative ties could be further developed.
On the Taiwan issue, Somare said that PNG adheres to the one-China policy and firmly supports China's stance on the issue. Hu, in reply, expressed appreciation.
On climate change, Hu said the Chinese government attaches importance to the issue, as well as the concerns of developing countries on the matter.
When addressing the issue, China advocates its support to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and Kyoto Protocol and adheres to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.
Somare said climate change is an issue related to development and its solution should be sought within the framework of the United Nations.
Both Hu and Somare were here to attend the economic leaders' meeting of the 21-member APEC forum, due to be held on Sept. 8-9 in Sydney.
Source: Xinhua
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