On the morning of November 1 2004, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing held talks with the visiting Minister Raymond Ramazani Baya of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) at the Diaoyutai State Guest House. The two sides exchanged views on bilateral relations and issues of Africa.

Li made active remarks on the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries and thanked the Government of the DRC for consistently upholding the one China policy. Li expressed that the Chinese sides stands ready to make joint efforts with the DRC side to strengthen multi-level friendly exchanges, expand the cooperation in the field of economy and trade, culture and education and health as well as enhance the coordination and negotiation in international affairs so as to constantly push forward the bilateral relations to new heights.

Li appreciated the progress in the DRC peace process. He emphasized that the Chinese Government will, as always, unswervingly support the DRC peace process and play a constructive role in comprehensively realizing peace in DRC at an early date.

Baya said that the DRC and China enjoy sound relations. The DRC Government thanked China for supporting and helping the DRC in realizing peace and building nation. The DRC is willing to expand cooperation with China in areas such as economy and trade in order to constantly push forward the bilateral relations.

Foreign Minister Baya arrived in Beijing on October 31 to pay an official visit to China at the invitation of Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing.