Premier Zhu Rongji Meets Cuban Guests

Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji met Monday afternoon with Cuban Minister of Finance and Price Manuel Millares Rodriguez and his party.

Zhu said that President Jiang Zemin's recent visit to Cuba was successful, adding that Jiang and President Castro have set forth the principles and framework for bilateral ties in the new century during the visit.

He said that he believes Jiang's visit will surely push forward bilateral relations to a new stage.

The Chinese government and people resolutely support Cuba's struggle to maintain its national dignity, Zhu said.

Zhu said that the Chinese people are happy to see the continuous development of Cuba's economy and the enormous achievements the Cuban people have made under the leadership of Castro.

The Premier also briefed the guests on China's economic situation. Rodriguez extended Castro's greetings to Zhu. He said that Jiang's visit to his country has further enhanced the friendly feelings between the two peoples, adding that the visit is of major significance in the history of Cuba-China relations.

Rodriguez also thanked China for its economic and moral support to Cuba.

The Cuban guests are here at the invitation of Chinese Finance Minister Xiang Huaicheng.

(People's Daily 04/23/2001)