Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said Thursday China hopes to normalize diplomatic relations with Costa Rica at an early date.

"We hope both sides could make further efforts to create conditions for normalizing China-Costa Rica relations as early as possible," said Qin at a regular press conference.

Qin's remarks came after a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Costa Rican President Oscar Arias on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

China takes positive attitudes towards establishing and developing normal nation-to-nation relations with Costa Rica, Qin added.

Costa Rica is one of the 24 countries which have "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan.

Source: Xinhua