China vows to further energy cooperation with Turkmenistan

BEIJING, April 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo said here Tuesday that China is ready to work with Turkmenistan to deepen pragmatic cooperation in the field of energy.

China gives much importance to China-Turkmenistan relations and regards the central Asian country as China's important partner, said Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC).

Wu made the remarks in meeting with Turkmenistan President Saparmurat Niyazov, who arrived here Sunday for a six-day state visit to China.

"The departments concerned will quicken their steps to study and implement China-Turkmenistan gas pipeline project," says the joint statement signed after talks between Chinese President Hu Jintao and Niyazov on Monday.

"The Chinese enterprises are encouraged to participate in the exploration and development of the natural gas field in Turkmenistan," it says.

Wu also highlighted the increasing trade volume between the two countries, which have maintained close communication and cooperation in international affairs.

"We appreciate Turkmenistan's consistent support for China on Taiwan, Tibet issues and in fighting 'three forces'", said Wu. "Three forces" refer to terrorism, splittism and extremism.

China will support Turkmenistan's efforts to safeguard sovereignty and develop national economy, Wu added.

On parliamentary exchanges, Wu said the NPC will further exchanges and cooperation with the Turkmenistan parliament so as to help promote bilateral relations.

Speaking of sound political relations and trade cooperation between Turkmenistan and China, Niyazov said his country will expand cooperation with China in such areas of trade, energy, infrastructure and culture, and enhance coordination in international affairs.

Niyazov reiterated his country's adherence to the one-China policy.

Niyazov also expressed his hope that the parliaments of the two countries will promote exchanges and establish long-term friendly cooperation.

The six-day visit will take Niyazov to China's financial hub Shanghai and Zhejiang Province in East China.