At the invitation of Foreign Minister Martonyi Janos of the Republic of Hungary, Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan of the People's Republic of China paid an official visit to the Republic of Hungary from Dec. 5 to 7, 2000.

The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on bilateral relations and international issues of mutual concern in a friendly and down-to-earth manner. They expressed satisfaction over the results of the visit and were convinced that the visit will further promote the development of China-Hungary friendly relations and cooperation oriented towards the 21st century.

In light of this and in order to further develop the friendly relations and deepen the mutual understanding between the two peoples, they reached the following consensus on behalf of their respective governments:

1. Both sides spoke highly the historical relations and friendly cooperation between the two countries and expressed satisfaction over the development of bilateral relations in recent years.

2. Both sides agreed that international situations provide favorable conditions for the expanding and deepening of bilateral and multilateral cooperation. The cooperation between the two countries in the United Nations and in other international organizations conduces to the peace, security and stability of Asia-Europe region and the wider world. They stand ready to continue their consultations and cooperation in international forums on such major global issues as curbing the proliferation of weapons of massive destruction, promoting the cause of economic and social development, environmental protection, peace and sustainable utilization of natural resources.

3. Both sides reiterated that the principled basis and political framework of bilateral relations formed in recent years conforms to the fundamental interests of both peoples. To develop bilateral cooperation oriented towards the 21st century within the framework of constructive partnership in accordance with the universally established principles of international law, norms governing international relations and purpose and principles of UN Charter and on the basis of mutual respect, equality, non-interference in each other's affairs is the common goal of both the government of the People's Republic of China and the government of the Republic of Hungary.

Both sides reiterated their respect for the choice by their own people of choosing their own development path in light of their own national conditions and on a voluntary basis. The acknowledged that the two countries have different social, economic, political situations and different value systems and have different views on such questions as human rights. However, there were of the view that these differences should not affect the development of bilateral relations. They hoped that disputes can be resolved through candid and sincere talks. They believed that the basis for dialogue are equality, mutual respect and their common interests in developing bilateral relations.

4. China appreciated the achievements Hungary has scored in its economic and social development and in its changing of path and hoped that as an important country in Central-Eastern Europe, Hungary can continue to play a constructive role in the region and the world at large. Both sides realized the importance of regional cooperation. The government of the People's Republic of China understood the efforts of the government of the Republic of Hungary to accede to the European Union and hoped that the realization of such an objective will not only promote the peace and stability of the European region, but also facilitate the further development of bilateral cooperation in a multi-faceted way. China has taken note of the decision Hungary has made about responsibilities it has to assume in forging such an alliance.

5. The Hungarian side appreciated the achievements China has scored in building the country and adopting the policy of reform and opening up. It hoped that China will continue to make contributions to the development of the international community and the maintenance of world peace and stability. The government of the Republic of Hungary reiterated its respect for China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and its adherence to the One China principle. It recognized that there is only one China in the world; Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing China. Hungary will not have official contacts with Taiwan. Hungary will only conduct economic and cultural exchanges within the non-official, non-governmental scope and of private nature.

6. Both sides were of the view that the frequent contacts and visits between the leaders of the two countries, governments and parliaments and among the parliamentarians as well as between the ministries, government institutions and armed forces of the two countries can facilitate the mutual understanding between the two countries and will help to further consolidate the traditional friendship between the two peoples. Both sides will continue to compare notes about reforms and renovations in economy, finance, social welfare, social insurance, culture, art, education, rule of law and others. The frequent dialogues and routine bilateral diplomatic contacts will enable the two countries to better understand each other's positions on major international issues and will help them exchange views and explore new ways for bilateral cooperation.

7. Both sides were of the view that bilateral agreements already in force serves as a basis for bilateral cooperation and provides conditions for the standardized cooperation for both countries. They affirmed that bilateral agreements do not involve the rights and obligations of their respective country towards the third country or the international rights and obligations of the two countries provided in multilateral agreements. In order to step up their cooperation, they will rectify or abolish existing agreements or sign new agreements in accordance with the specific requirements of bilateral relations.

8. Both sides attached great importance to the bilateral mutually beneficial economic cooperation, which is conducive to the social and economic development of both countries. While setting store by the growth of bilateral trade and the increase of bilateral trade volume, the two countries should also improve their balance of trade. They will encourage their corporations and enterprises to increase investment and set up joint ventures in each other's country and conduct cooperation of other forms including cooperation in the market of a third country in accordance with the laws of market economy. The two governments will support the expanding of ties in industry, agriculture, finance, banking, transportation, telecommunications and other service and infrastructure sectors.

9. Both sides support the mutually beneficial cooperation between the judicial, public security, internal affairs, police and other departments of the two countries, which constitutes great contributions in the global cause of jointly cracking down on international terrorism, organized crimes, drug processing and drug trafficking and smuggling of arms.
Both sides were of the view that the direct contacts and the legal activities of the citizens of the two countries in each other's country is conducive to the development of bilateral relations. The two countries will resolve problems caused during these contacts in accordance with their respective international obligations, the provisions of relevant valid bilateral agreements and relevant domestic laws and regulations. They should educate their nationals to abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are staying in and live in harmony with local people and not discriminate against the nationals of other countries who are staying in their country and the legitimate rights and interests of these people should be safeguarded. The competent departments of both countries should conduct constructive cooperation in resolving problems arising therefrom.

10. The two countries will continue their cooperation in scientific research, culture, education, sports, tourism, journalism and other humanities. They support the establishment of direct links between the NGOs, social organizations and foundations in the above areas and encourage the direct cooperation between the regional and local institutions of the two countries. They agreed that such relationship will enable the two peoples to better understand each other and facilitate the cooperation in all fields between the two countries.

Representative of the People's Republic of China
Representative of the Republic of Hungary

Budapest
Nov. 6, 2000