China and Turkmenistan pledge to deepen bilateral cooperation in fighting against terrorist, separatist and extremist forces amid Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister Atamurat Berdyev's visit in Beijing.

China and Turkmenistan are expected to enhance their cooperation in the spheres of energy, trade, science and technology, Chinese foreign minister Li Zhaoxing said during his meeting with Berdyev here on Friday.

Li acknowledged that the two governments need to further increase cooperate on fighting against terrorist, separatist and extremist forces in the region - that is, the East Turkistan terror group.

Li spoke highly of the achievements made in bilateral relations since China and Turkmenistan forged their diplomatic ties in 1991, saying that China supports Turkmenistan's neutral policy and its efforts for safeguarding national independence, sovereignty and dignity.

Li also appreciated Turkmenistan for its adherence to the one-China policy.

Berdyev said Turkmenistan and China have long-standing traditional friendship, and that the Turkmen president and government thank China for its support to Turkmenistan on economic development as well as its support in the international arena.

The Turkmen government attaches great importance to developing friendly cooperation with China in various fields including energy, communications, and textile industry.

The two sides also had an exchange of views on regional and international issues of common concern.

Berdyev is currently in China for a working visit from December 1 to 6 at the invitation of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Source: Xinhua