The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a United Nations agency, said Friday that substantial progress has been made in its relations with China during a visit to China by IOM chief.

At the invitation of the Chinese government, IOM Director General Brunson McKinley made an official visit to China on Monday and Tuesday, said IOM spokesperson Niurka Pineiro.

McKinley held talks with Chinese government officials and discussed the regular labor migration, and the possibility of joint research projects, said Pineiro.

They also discussed measures to control irregular migration, especially through information campaigns in areas where smugglers are active, and high-tech applications for identity documentation and movement management, she added.

The spokesperson said the Chinese authorities expressed their wish to strengthen relations with IOM and further develop cooperation through specific projects.

The two sides agreed in principle that IOM should open an office in Beijing in the near future, he said.

"China has strengthened its interest and activity in the field of migration management in recent years. It joined IOM as an observer in 2001 and participates actively in international discussions on the subject," said Pineiro.

(Xinhua News Agency August 8, 2004)