China and Jamaica Bolstering Ties

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pledged Wednesday to continue China’s support to Jamaica’s economic development, saying the two sides should expand cooperation in infrastructure construction, mining and tourism. Wen made the remarks when meeting with his Jamaican counterpart Bruce Golding.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao

“As the international financial crisis has posed severe impact on China and the Caribbean states, we should help each other, enhance cooperation, and jointly cope with challenges so as to consistently boost our friendly ties,” Wen said.

China’s trade with Jamaica slipped by some 30 percent to 219 million U.S. dollars last year. However, China’s imports from Jamaica nearly tripled year on year, according to Chinese custom figures.

Golding hailed Jamaica-China exchanges and cooperation in politics, economy and humanitarian fields. He pledged to stick to the one-China policy and voiced hope to expand trade and economic ties, as well as consultation on international affairs, with China.

Golding appreciated China’s responsible attitude in tackling climate change and pledged to further cooperation with China. Golding arrived in Beijing Monday. During his five-day trip, Golding is also expected to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao and Vice President Xi Jinping.

Read More – Xinhua