China, Samoa to further parliamentary exchanges

China values parliamentary exchanges with Samoa and would like to promote the two countries' relationship, said the top Chinese legislator Tuesday in a meeting with Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Wu Bangguo (R) , chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), shakes hands with Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi during a meeting in Beijing on May 10, 2005.

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, said Samoa is among the first group of nations in south Pacific Ocean to forge the diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. Sino-Samoan ties have developed steadily during the past three decades although the international situation has changed greatly.

The two countries have supported each other politically and cooperated well in the economic and other fields. This benefits the people of the two countries, he said.

Wu noted that China will promote political trust and economic cooperation with Samoa to push bilateral relations to a new height.

He said Samoa adheres to the one-China policy, supports Anti-Secession Law and opposes "Taiwan Independence." China appreciates this, said Wu.

Tuilaepa said China's development will provide opportunities to cooperation between the two countries. This year is the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Samoa and China. Samoa would like to take the chance to push forward the relations with China.

He reaffirmed Samoa will resolutely pursue the one-China policy, oppose "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan," and support China's reunification cause.