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Colombia's President Meets Chinese Defense Minister
Colombian President Andres Pastrana met with visiting Chinese Defense Minister Chi Haotian Monday, saying his visit is of great importance to the development of relations between the two countries and armed forces.
Pastrana recalled his visit to China in 1999 and the talks with Chinese President Jiang Zemin. He asked Chi to convey his regards to Jiang.
Chi, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor, said he is pleased to be the first Chinese defense minister to visit Colombia and conveyed Jiang's greetings to the Colombian leader.
The Chinese defense minister said the Chinese government and armed forces attach importance to the development of friendship and cooperation with the Colombian government and forces.
He praised the great achievements made by Colombia in developing the economy and promoting the peace process, and expressed gratitude for the support it has extended to China on the Taiwan and human rights issues.
Chi arrived in Bogota earlier Monday at the invitation of Colombian Vice-President and Defense Minister Gustavo Bell Lemus.
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