Special report: Tension escalates in Iraq

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan said here Wednesday that China is ready to enhance economic and trade cooperation with Iraq.

    "China values its relations with Iraq and will strengthen economic and trade cooperation and exchanges with Iraq on the basis of mutual respect, equality and reciprocal benefit," Tang told visiting former Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Al-Jaafari.

    Tang said China is always concerned with the situation in Iraq and supports the Iraqi government's efforts for stability, reconciliation and reconstruction.

    "China will work with the international community to play its due role in helping Iraq achieve stability and development," said Tang.

    Jaafari said he appreciated and thanked China's contribution to the stability and development in Iraq.