China reiterated Tuesday that it opposes any form of official contact between the United States and Taiwan authorities, Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said at a press conference.

"Such contact overtly violates the principles of the three Sino-US joint communiques and relevant commitments made by the United States," he said.

Kong was commenting on reports that Taiwan "foreign minister" Eugene Chien had attended a meeting in the United States under the sponsorship of the American Enterprise Institute.

Chien also discussed "bilateral relations" during a meeting with US Vice-President Dick Cheney.

Kong said that China has expressed deep concern over the issue and asked the United States to clarify its position in this regard.

"The move interferes in China's internal affairs and will damage Sino-US relations as well cooperation between the two sides," Kong said.

The United States should recognize the importance and sensitivity of the Taiwan question and review its official exchanges with Taiwan to avoid damaging Sino-US relations, the spokesman said.

In other developments, Sheikah Mozah Al-Misnad, Consort of the Emir of the State of Qatar, reportedly announced on Monday his plans to establish an International Fund For Iraqi Higher Education at an international higher education conference in Paris.

In response, Kong said China appreciates and supports the setting up of the fund and hopes it will be conducive to the restoration and development of Iraqi education.

Kong also answered a question about whether cooperation between China, Russia and India could threaten other nations in the regions.

He said the ties are not intended to target a third party.

The three countries share common interests and similar stances in promoting democracy of international relations, maintaining security and stability in the region and the world, and boosting economic development, Kong noted.

He also disclosed that South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun is to visit China at the invitation of Chinese President Hu Jintao, but gave no further details.

(China Daily June 25, 2003)