During the talks, Jiang said former DRC President Laurent Kabila, Joseph Kabila's father, visited China in 1997 and his tour has brought remarkable progress in the promotion of bilateral ties.

Jiang said he believed that Joseph Kabila's current visit would increase mutual understanding between China and the DRC and elevate bilateral friendly cooperation to a new high.

While speaking of Sino-DRC relations and friendship, Jiang said that as early as when the DRC fought for its independence, China has given moral support and material assistance to the DRC people.

Jiang also pointed out that China and the DRC are both developing countries and the two have many common concerns as well as common interests in major international issues.

Speaking of bilateral trade and economic cooperation, Jiang said bilateral cooperation has developed smoothly and China supports the DRC's efforts towards reconstruction and will encourage reputable Chinese businesses to invest in the DRC.

Jiang praised Kabila's dedication to developing Sino-DRC friendly cooperation as well as his firm adherence to the "one China" policy.

He expressed his belief that under the leadership of Kabila, the DRC government and people would certainly overcome all difficulties and achieve peace and economic prosperity.

Kabila, for his part, said the DRC has always valued China's friendship, stressing China's constant support of the DRC government and people, especially during difficult times.

He said economic and diplomatic cooperation between the DRC and China has great development potential, and hopes that China will enhance cooperation in fields such as energy and agriculture and increase investment in the DRC.

Jiang said China has, as always, been concerned about the peace process in the DRC, and extends heart-felt sympathy for the suffering and loss brought about by the ongoing conflict in the DRC.

He emphasized that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC should be respected, foreign military forces should leave the DRC and conflict should be resolved through dialogue, consultation and a peaceful approach.

After the talks, Jiang and Kabila attended the ceremony for signing three cooperation agreements between China and the DRC.

Prior to the talks, Jiang presided over a grand welcoming ceremony to honor Kabila at the Great Hall of the People.

Kabila arrived here Friday morning for a four-day state visit to China at the invitation of Jiang. This is his first visit to China since he assumed the post of the head of state of the DRC.

(Xinhua News Agency March 22, 2002)