China indicated the Macedonian government's adherence to the one-China principle and support of China's sovereignty and territorial integrity is appreciated, Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said in Beijing Tuesday.

Cao made his remarks during talks with visiting Macedonian Minister of Defense Vlado Buckovski.

Cao said he is grateful for Buckovski's efforts to normalize Sino-Macedonian relations, noting that only firm opposition to Taiwan independence can safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits.

"That we state our willingness and strength to guarantee the reunification of China is aimed at maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits," he added.

Cao reiterated China's consistent stance on the Taiwan question was the basic principle of "one country, two systems." The Chinese government has stated repeatedly that China will do its utmost to realize peaceful reunification as long as it was possible, he said.

The so-called March 20 Taiwan referendum was provocative and aimed at splitting Taiwan from China, he said, accusing the Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian of raising the risks of separatist activity under the guise of "democracy" and "human rights."

Buckovski is the first Macedonian defense minister to visit China since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. He said Macedonia respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of China and adheres to the one-China policy.

(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2004)