BEIJING, March 7 -- In Beijing, where Foreign Minister, Li Zhaoxing, has just met
domestic and overseas journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing annual
sessions of the NPC and CPPCC. The press conference focused on China's foreign
policy and external relations.
The building of a harmonious world was the first
issue the Chinese Foreign Minister was asked about.
Li Zhaoxing said that mutual respect and
non-interference in other countries' internal affairs are necessary conditions
for building a harmonious world.
Li Zhaoxing said, "The United Nations Charter
establishes the principle of non-interference in each other's internal affairs.
According to that provision, the United Nations, as the largest
inter-governmental organization in the world, should not interfere in the
internal affairs of its member countries. It can be imagined and understood that
any country should not interfere in the internal affairs of another country."
Li Zhaoxing said China is committed to promoting
peaceful coexistence, equal treatment, cooperation, and development among
countries.
The foreign minister noted Chinese President Hu
Jintao's upcoming visit to Russia will further boost the Sino-Russian strategic
partnership.
This year marks the Year of China in Russia, and the
two countries will hold about 200 activities to promote bilateral exchanges,
deepen traditional friendship and further boost Sino-Russian coordination.
Li Zhaoxing also said Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to
Japan in April will be the first by a Chinese leader in seven years. He said it
was greatly important to the two countries.
Li also said Japan should face up to history, take
responsibility, and properly handle the issue of "comfort women", who were World
War Two-era sex slaves to the Japanese military.
On the Korean nuclear controversy, Li Zhaoxing said
dialogue and consultation remained the best way to solve the issue.
He said China will continue to work with the other
countries in the six-party talks to facilitate the discussions. IN addition, all
sides should faithfully fulfill their commitment to resolving the issue.
The Chinese Foreign Minister said the Iranian nuclear
issue should be resolved through diplomatic channels and negotiation.
Li Zhaoxing called on Iran to step up cooperation
with the IAEA, saying China hopes to see the resumption of diplomatic
negotiations for regional peace and stability.
He announced that China and African countries will
build a politically supportive and economically strong strategic partnership,
that takes culture into account.
Li Zhaoxing also said the Chinese government fully
supports the consensus reached by the United Nations, the African Union and the
Sudanese government on the Darfur issue.
The foreign minister also answered questions on
Taiwan, and a number of other major international issues.
(Source: CCTV.com)
