Ukraine reliable friend, partner: Chinese Vice Premier

Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang met in Kiev Tuesday with Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko.

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang (R) shakes hands with Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko in Kiev, capital of Ukraine, Oct. 27, 2009. (Xinhua/Mu Liming)
Zhang said China and Ukraine had a long history of friendly communication and friendship. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 17 years ago, bilateral ties have been growing stronger.

The two countries had enjoyed mutual political understanding and trust, economic cooperation, cultural exchanges and coordination in international affairs, Zhang said, adding that the prospects for bilateral cooperation on economics and trade, science and technology, people-to-people and cultural communication were good.

Zhang stressed that Ukraine was a major country in Europe. It was also China's important partner of cooperation in the region. In sum, China regarded Ukraine as a reliable friend and partner.

Zhang had three suggestions for the comprehensive development of China-Ukraine ties. First, to deepen mutual political trust and fortify mutual support. Second, to push forward practical cooperation and achieve common development. Third, to reinforce people-to-people and cultural exchanges and deepen traditional friendship.

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang (4th R) meets with Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko (3rd L) in Kiev, capital of Ukraine, Oct. 27, 2009. (Xinhua/Mu Liming)
Yushchenko said he completely agreed with Zhang and expressed his respect for China's marvelous accomplishments in recent years.

The president said his country cherished the bilateral friendship and high-level mutual political trust. Ukraine was therefore willing to further cooperate with China in fields such as aviation, aircraft manufacture and infrastructure.

Source: Xinhua