On November 21, President Jiang Zemin met with Moldavian Prime Minister Vasile Tarlev at Zhongnanhai in a cordial atmosphere.

Jiang welcomed Tarlev to China and expressed the belief that Tarlev will learn about China's reform and opening up and economic development through field visits. He also believed that the mutual exchanges between friends would help each other's success in domestic affairs.

Jiang happily recalled his successful visit to Moldova in July this year and expressed thanks once again to the Moldavian side for their warm reception.

Jiang said that the Chinese and Moldavian people enjoy a traditional friendship. During the 10 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, bilateral relations have developed smoothly, with frequent exchanges between the leaders of the two countries and ever strengthening cooperation in all fields. China and Moldova have coordinated with each other on the international stage and supported each other in maintaining national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The relationship between China and Moldova is one of mutual trust, support, benefit and equal standing. China is ready to work with Moldova to achieve stable, comprehensive and long-term development of friendly cooperative relations.

Jiang said the talks between Tarlev and Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji held Tuesday were fruitful. The documents signed between the two sides on cooperation on viticulture and wine production and on cooperation between the ministries of Justice have added new content to cooperation between the two countries. Jiang believed that the cooperation in various areas will continue to be successful as long as both sides take practical measures.

Jiang appreciated the effort by the new Moldavian government under the leadership of Tarlev to maintain domestic political stability, economic recovery and improvement of people's life. He also wished well-being for the friendly Moldavian people .

Jiang asked Tarlev to convey his greetings to Moldovan President Vladimir Voronin and invited Voronin to visit China at his convenience.

Tarlev spoke highly of President Jiang's visit to Moldova in July this year, which laid a sound foundation for the smooth development of bilateral relations. He said that his ongoing visit to China is a move to put into effect the agreements that the two leaders reached in July.

Tarlev said that the peoples of Moldova and China enjoy a traditional friendship. The two countries respect each other in the international arena. There are great potential and broad prospects in bilateral economic and trade cooperation, which has developed very quickly. The Moldavian side is ready to work with the Chinese side to promote quicker development in mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation. He wished great success for the Chinese product exhibition to be held in Moldova next year, which will play an active role in promoting bilateral economic and trade cooperation and exchanges.

Tarlev praised China's economic achievements and successful experiences. He thanked China for its assistance of Moldova's economic development.

The two sides also exchanged views on major international issues including the fight against terrorism.