The governments of the People's Republic of China and the Czech Republic released a joint communiqué on December 18. Following is the full text of the joint communiqué:


Czech Prime Minister Milos Zeman paid a three-day official visit to China on December 16-18 at the invitation of Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji.


The Czech Prime Minister and the Chinese Premier held formal talks during which both sides exchanged in-depth views on enhancing bilateral relations and international issues of common concern in a friendly atmosphere.


Both sides expressed satisfaction with the results of the Czech Prime Minister's visit, and said they believe this visit will further promote the development of Sino-Czech friendly and cooperative ties.


First, both sides evaluated the results of bilateral cooperation and agreed that further consolidating bilateral ties accords with the fundamental interests of both peoples. Both sides will continue to enhance their friendship, and hope to develop their long-term, stable cooperative ties in various fields on the basis of the principles of mutual respect, mutual benefit, and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.


Second, Both sides decided to carry out extensive dialogues between both governments and government organs at all levels and between both parliaments on issues of common concern, as well as encourage the establishment of ties between non-governmental agencies in both countries.


Third, both sides reiterated the hope to further strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of trade and economy, and to encourage cooperation in various forms between enterprises in both countries in the fields of trade, investment, production and technology. Both sides support the enterprises from the two countries to strengthen cooperation in such areas as energy, transport vehicles, medicine, environmental protection, textiles, home appliances, telecommunications and electronic equipment. They also support the Sino-Czech economic and trade committees to further play a role in promoting bilateral relations. The two sides are willing to further develop cooperation in scientific and technological research, culture, education, sports, tourism and journalism.


Fourth, enterprises from the two countries signed a contract for China's Shanxi Shentou No. 2 Power Plant to import two 500,000-kilowatt power generators from Czech and Slovakia. The governments of China and Czech will urge relevant departments to promptly finalize their respective internal procedures for the implementation of the contract.


Fifth, the Czech side reiterates that it respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the People's Republic of China on the basis of the "one China" principle, and recognizes that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory.


Sixth, the two sides respect the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, and the universally acknowledged rules of international laws. Both sides are willing to make active contributions to safeguarding peace, promoting development, and protecting human rights for the common progress of humanity. To that end, the two sides will further strengthen their cooperation in international organizations.


Prime Minister Zeman expressed his gratitude for China's hospitable reception during his visit and invited Premier Zhu Rongji to visit the Czech Republic. Premier Zhu accepted the invitation with pleasure.