China is willing to make joint efforts with Ukraine to expand bilateral cooperation in various fields, said Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Beijing Monday.

Li made the remarks during the talks with visiting Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kostyantyn Gryshchenko. The two sides exchanged views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

Li spoke highly of the achievements in Sino-Ukrainian ties in recent years, and expressed appreciation for Ukraine's persistent support for China in issues concerning Taiwan, Tibet and human rights.

Li said the Chinese government attaches great importance on the relations with Ukraine, supports Ukraine's efforts to safeguard its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respects Ukraine's option for its development road and domestic and foreign policies according to the country's situation.

Li said China is willing to join hands with Ukraine to expand cooperation and strengthen consultation and coordination in international affairs, so as to push the Sino-Ukrainian ties into a new height.

Gryshchenko asked Li to deliver Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma's letter to Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Gryshchenko said Ukraine attaches great importance on its relations with China, and since the two countries established diplomatic relations 13 years ago, bilateral ties have reached a high level, with constant deepening of mutual understanding and trust and gradual rise of bilateral trade volume every year.

Gryshchenko said the Ukraine-China commissions for cooperation in economy and trade, science and technology and culture make active efforts and achieve remarkable fruits in their cooperation.

Gryshchenko reiterated that Ukraine will continue to adhere to the one-China policy and will not develop official relations with Taiwan.

The Ukrainian side appreciates China's support in political and economic fields and regards China as the most reliable cooperative partner, Gryshchenko said, adding that Ukraine is willing to further strengthen cooperation with China in bilateral and international fields, and to jointly promote the bilateral ties. 　

Gryshchenko officially visits China from July 2 to 7 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.

(Xinhua News Agency July 6, 2004)