Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Moldovian Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Stratan held talks in Beijing Friday, pledging to expand cooperation and promote bilateral ties.

Li said China and Moldova have kept frequent high-level exchanges and expanded cooperation in various fields since the establishment of diplomatic ties 14 years ago. As a result, bilateral relations have been growing steady and healthy.

"China is ready to join hands with Moldova to deepen bilateral substantial cooperation, and promote China-Moldova ties up to a new stage," the foreign minister said.

Stratan, also minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova, expressed appreciation over the assistance China provided to his country.

He said Moldova holds firm the one-China policy and supports China's reunification course. Moldova hopes to expand cooperation with China in trade, technology, culture and education.

Stratan arrived in China on Wednesday. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with him on Friday.

(Xinhua News Agency October 14, 2006 )