On the afternoon of August 22, Premier Zhu Rongji held talks with visiting Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa in the Great Hall of People. Premier Zhu first extended warm welcome to Prime Minister Tuilaepa on behalf of the Chinese Government and people. He went on to say that he was very pleased to meet with Tuilaepa again after he had the honor of making the acquaintance of Prime Minister Tuipaepa when he visited Samoa in May, 1997.

Premier Zhu noted that friendly relations of cooperation between the two countries have been developing steadily since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975. Leaders of the two countries and people from different walks of life have had frequent exchanges in recent years, and mutual understanding and friendship have developed further. Zhu remarked that this demonstrates that it is the common understanding of the two governments and peoples to promote Sino-Samoan relations, citing the fruitful cooperation in the areas of politics, the economy, trade, culture, education and sports. He noted that Sino-Somoan trade volume saw a sharp increase in the first half of this year, adding that both being agricultural countries, the two countries are supplementary in the agricultural field and can therefore learn from each other. China has a vast market and many applicable technologies, while Samoa enjoys rich resources in fisheries and tourism. There exists promising prospect for bilateral cooperation. In addition, he said, the two countries have had close cooperation in international and regional affairs. China is satisfied with the growth of bilateral ties.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa thanked the Chinese Government for the accommodation and hospitality accorded to him and his entourage. He said that his China visit has been successful, and the Samoan government pays great attention to developing relations with China. He agreed with Premier Zhu on his appraisal of bilateral relations. He noted that the two countries have conducted good cooperation in political, economic and trade areas over the past years. Samoa is fully prepared to promote mutually beneficial cooperation with China in the coming years so as to further substantiate the bilateral ties.

They also exchanged views on the situation in the south Pacific region. Premier Zhu said that China has followed the development in the south Pacific region, and hopes for stability there and supports the efforts made by countries in the region to safeguard their sovereignty and territorial integrity. He went on to say that China will, as always, make its contribution to developing friendship and cooperation with countries in the south Pacific region, and to safeguarding peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large.

Premier Zhu also praised the Samoan government's adherence to the One-China policy and its stance of not having official contact with Taiwan.

After the talks, they signed an agreement on economic and technological cooperation.


August 23, 2000