China attaches importance to its relations with Ireland and is willing to share experiences in economic development with Ireland, said Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji in Beijing Tuesday.

In a meeting with Mary Harney, Irish deputy prime minister and minister for enterprise, trade and employment, Zhu said the friendly cooperation between China and Ireland has been growing quite well in recent years, with bilateral trade developing quickly, especially since the beginning of last year.

Zhu said he believes that Harney's visit will surely further the friendly cooperation between the two countries.

The Chinese Premier said Ireland's policy of developing high and new technologies has contributed greatly to the economic development there, adding that China needs to learn from it.

Zhu thanked Ireland for its adherence to the one-China policy and support for China's entry into the World Trade Organization.

Harney said after the visit to China by Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern in 1998, Ireland set the policy of developing more contacts with Asia, primarily developing relations with China in the field of economy, trade, and science and technology.

Harney said Ireland and China, two countries located far apart and different in size, enjoy great potential for cooperation.

She said the two countries signed an agreement in science and technology cooperation several days ago, adding that the two countries can conduct more cooperation in various fields.

She reiterated that the Irish government will continue to stick to the one-China policy and support China's entry into the World Trade Organization.

The Chinese Premier briefed the guest on the economic and social development in Tibet and the efforts and achievements the Chinese government has made in protecting human rights.

Zhu stressed that China advocates dialogue rather than confrontation in the field of human rights.

No country can say its human rights are perfect, Zhu said, adding that only through dialogue can different countries enhance their understanding and narrow their differences.

Harney said she agrees with Zhu's comments on human rights.

Zhu also briefed the guest on China's policy in developing the western area.

Harney extended Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern's greeting to Zhu and invited Zhu to visit Ireland. Zhu thanked Her and asked her to extend his regards to Ahern.

Zhu said he will be happy to meet Ahern in Seoul at the meeting of Asian and European countries.

(Xinhua 09/12/2000)