BEIJING (Xinhua)–China hopes for peace and stability in the Caucasus–which will benefit all countries in the region.
Li Peng–chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress–made this remark today in a meeting with Armenian Defense Minister Vazgen Sargsyan.
He said that Armenia’s domestic situation and its international environment have been improving after a period of difficulty–and China is delighted to see it.
Li said he hopes that Armenia will consolidate its achievemen’s and maintain a sustained development.
On bilateral relations–Li said–Sino-Armenian ties have been growing smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic relations six years ago–and the areas of cooperation have been expanded.
Li noted that the agreemen’s signed between the two countries on economy–trade–science–technology–culture–education and civil aviation have laid a solid foundation for further collaboration. He added that China takes a positive attitude toward developing relations with Armenia.
Sargsyan noted "successful talks" with his Chinese counterpart General Chi Haotian on Tuesday–and said that he and Chi agreed to deepen cooperation between the two armed forces.
He also expressed the hope that the two countries will intensify their cooperation in economy–trade and mineral- resources exploitation.
Sargsyan said that Armenia places priority on its relations with China in its foreign policy. He also conveyed an invitation from Armenian Parliament Speaker Khosrov Harutunian to Li Peng to visit Armenia