Premier Wen Jiabao and Tongan Prime Minister Feleti Vaka'uta
Sevele held talks in Beijing on Thursday, pledging to strengthen
cooperation in agriculture, fishing, tourism and human
resources.
In their official talks at the Great Hall of the People in
downtown Beijing, the two premiers hailed the fruitful cooperation
between the two countries over the years.
Wen said the two countries have always stuck to the principles
of mutual respect, mutual benefit and common development in their
cooperation since they forged diplomatic ties nine years ago.
Over the years, China has provided aid to Tonga without any
political conditions attached, Wen said.
"The aid is simply aimed at strengthening Tonga's capability of
independent development," Wen said, adding China develops relations
with Pacific island nations for the sake of maintaining regional
stability, promoting sustainable economic and social
development.
China respects the sovereignty of the Pacific island nations as
well as the development road they choose for themselves, Wen
said.
He said China is ready to help these countries develop economy,
and work together with them to meet the UN Millennium Development
Goals.
China is a reliable and good friend of the Pacific island
countries including Tonga, Wen said, vowing to support their
reasonable requests in protecting oceanic resources and on the
climate change issue.
Sevele appreciated China's support for Tonga's economic
development, adding his country will strengthen exchanges with
China and enhance cooperation within the framework of China-Pacific
Island Countries Economic Development and Cooperation Forum.
He reiterated the Tongan government will firmly stick to the
one-China policy and support China's peaceful reunification.
Sevele started his seven-day China trip on Tuesday morning.
President Hu Jintao and top legislator Wu Bangguo will meet with
him on Friday.
Besides Beijing, Sevele will also visit Shaanxi and Heilongjiang
provinces.
(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2007)
