In an exclusive interview with Chinese reporters at his office, Kuchma said he would discuss bilateral relations and a wide range of other issues with Chinese leaders on his coming visit to China, scheduled for Nov. 17-20.

He pointed out that the bilateral relationship between Ukraine and China has developed rapidly in a good direction over the last 10 years, and the two countries' leaders have held positive political dialogues after Ukraine gained independence.

"China is a major political, economic and trade partner of Ukraine in the Asia-Pacific region. We highly evaluate the friendly relationship and very fruitful cooperation with China. China is one of the influential countries in international society and is our reliable partner," the Ukrainian leader said.

Kuchma said Ukraine adheres to the one-China policy and supports China in resolving the Taiwan issue with the principle of "one country, two systems."

He said the two countries, without any political disputes, have great potentials in developing economic and trade relations and will further promote the economic and trade cooperation with mutual benefits and complementary economies.

The trade between Ukraine and China enjoyed a steady growth in recent years and this year's trade volume was expected to reach the highest level in the past 10 years, he added.

Kuchma noted that the scientific and technological cooperation between the two countries had broad prospects and China's policy of developing the western region also provided new opportunities for the two countries to expand the scope of cooperation.

Describing the 16th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) as a landmark in China's history, the Ukrainian leader said China has scored remarkable achievements under the leadership of the CPC and created a new economic miracle in the 21st century.

(People's Daily November 16, 2002)