President Hu Jintao put forward a four-point proposal to enhance the relations between China and Estonia during a meeting with visiting Estonian President Arnold Ruutel Thursday.

The proposal includes maintaining high-level exchanges and dialogues to promote political trust; expanding bilateral economic and trade cooperation; enriching cultural, educational and tourism cooperation to promote friendship between the two peoples; and strengthening coordination and consultations in international affairs.

"China values Estonia's role in international affairs and will exchange views with Estonia in major international and regional issues to safeguard world peace and stability," Hu said.

He added that the year 2006 marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and hoped the two sides will continue to push forward cooperation.

Hu noted that China is among the earliest countries to forge diplomatic ties with Estonia, and the two countries' efforts to maintain sound relations and cooperation in all fields have been fruitful.

China supports the efforts of Estonia in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, and appreciates Estonia's adherence to the one-China policy, Hu said.

Ruutel said that Estonia and China have cooperated well in telecommunication, information and electricity, and he hoped the two sides will promote cooperation on biotechnology, environmental protection and resources exploration.

He also said Estonia would like to play a "bridge" role in pushing cooperation between China and the EU, and expects to enhance cooperation with China in international affairs such as UN reform.

(Xinhua News Agency August 26, 2005)