Leaders from China, Tajikistan and Ukraine Friday called for closer bilateral relations on the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the two countries.

In his letter of congratulations to Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmonov, President Jiang Zemin said bilateral ties were in the fundamental interests of both countries as well as conducive to the security, stability and development of the region.

Rakhmonov said his government gives priority to developing relations with China.

He highlighted the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, saying China and Tajikistan - both members of the organization - have made important contributions to the fight against international terrorism, separatism and extremism.

He also said the maintenance of regional peace and security and the enhancement of trust and cooperation had developed smoothly.

While writing to Ukraine President Leonid Kuchma yesterday, Jiang said both countries have followed the principles of respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and reciprocity, and achieved sound and steady development in bilateral ties.

Kuchma responded by saying that great potential remains in bilateral ties.

(China Daily January 6, 2002)