Ivanov thanked Li for China's congratulatory message to the Russian people on the 58th anniversary of Victory Day over Nazi Germany in World War II, noting that it is a cause for celebration for peace-loving people across the world.

Ivanov briefed Li on Russia's opinion of the draft resolution on Iraq that the United States and other nations will submit to the United Nations Security Council, saying the United Nations should play an important role on this significant issue.

Russia stands ready to keep consulting with China so as to make constructive efforts towards the solution of the Iraq issue, Ivanov said.

Li said the Iraq issue has entered a new stage and China shares quite a few common views with Russia on the issue. Permanent UN representatives from the two nations can continue consultations in order to seek the proper solution to the issue, while maintaining consultations with other members of the Security Council.

The two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in South Asia and on China's fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome.

(Xinhua News Agency May 9, 2003)