- Published: 24.06.2003.
Chinese MFA Li Zhaoxing received Dr. Ivan Šimonović, the Croatian Deputy Foreign Minister...
On 24 June 2003, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Li Zhaoxing received the Deputy Foreign Minister of Croatia Dr. Ivan Šimonović who was visiting China for regular consultations between the two Foreign Ministries.
Minister Li Zhaoxing expressed the readiness of the Chinese Government to cooperate with the Government of Croatia in deepening the bilateral relations. He presented China's view of the world situation characterised by general instability caused by the factors like local wars, international terrorism, ethnic separatism and religious extremism. Under such circumstances China is ready to strengthen the consultations with Croatia and the cooperation within the UN and other international organisations.
Dr. Šimonović informed Minister Li Zhaoxing about Croatia's foreign policy priorities and the efforts made by the Government of Croatia in joining the European Union. Minister Li Zhaoxing expressed his understanding and support for Croatia's efforts.
The Chinese side supports and appreciates the achievements of Croatia in the process of joining the EU which is a Chinese strategic, political and economic partner, too. China appreciates the leading role of Croatia in the region, and its contribution to the regional stability.
It has been agreed that specific forms of economic cooperation will be discussed in more detail within the Joint Committee for Economic Cooperation scheduled in Beijing in November this year. They also spoke about the visit of Prime Minister Račan to China.