US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage has reiterated that the United States will adhere to the "One China" policy and oppose "Taiwan Independence".

Visiting Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo has held talks with US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage in Washington.

Dai Bingguo comprehensively expounded China's firm stance on Taiwan question, stressing that the national sovereignty and territory integrity is China's core interest.

He urged the US to keep its promises and not to assist Taiwan separatists, particularly not to sell weapons to Taiwan.

Armitage says US understands the sensitivity of Taiwan question, and reiterates that US will constantly pursue One-China policy, abide by three Sino-US Communiques, oppose Taiwan independence and any unilateral actions that may change Taiwan's current situation.

In addition, the two sides discussed the implementation of the agreements reached between Chinese President Hu Jintao and US President George W. Bush during their meeting in Santiago, Chile, last month. They also exchanged views on Iraqi issues as well as the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.

The two officials agree that the smooth development of Sino-US relations in the next four years is of vital importance.

Both of them vow to continue high-level visit exchanges, strengthen cooperation on important international and regional issues, and push forward economic cooperation.

During his visit to the United States, Dai Bingguo also met with US Secretary of State Colin Powell, National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice, and US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

(CRI December 5, 2004)