Foreign Ministry website message, on November 17, Chen Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held talks in Beijing with Syria's Transitional Government Foreign Minister Hibaani, who was visiting China.

Chen Yi stated that Sino-Syrian friendly exchanges have a long history, and the ancient Silk Road connected the people of the two countries. Syria is one of the earliest Arab countries to establish diplomatic relations with the new China. Both China and Syria are developing countries with extensive common interests. China has always adhered to the principle of equality among nations regardless of their size, firmly standing by the side of developing countries, especially small and medium-sized countries, and resolutely safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South. China's policy of friendship is oriented towards all the Syrian people, respecting the choices made by the Syrian people. The two sides should adhere to mutual respect for each other's core interests, uphold non-interference in internal affairs, promote the tradition of continuous friendly relations, calibrate the direction of Sino-Syrian relations, and realize the return of bilateral relations to the right track.

Chen Yi said that China appreciates Syria's commitment to the One-China Principle, and hopes that Syria will firmly support the just cause of the Chinese people in opposing "Taiwan independence" separatism and striving for national reunification, and jointly safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations. "East Turkestan Islamic Movement" is an international terrorist organization recognized by the UN Security Council. Syria has committed to not allowing any entity to use Syrian territory to harm China's interests. China appreciates this and hopes that Syria will take effective measures to implement it, removing security obstacles for the smooth development of Sino-Syrian relations.

Chen Yi stated that next year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Syria. The two sides should gradually resume exchanges at all levels and in all fields, and welcome Syria to participate in building the "Belt and Road Initiative", strengthening cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the China-Arab Cooperation Forum. China is willing to actively consider participating in Syria's economic reconstruction and contribute to Syria's social development and improvement of people's livelihood. China supports Syria's early achievement of peace, upholds the principle of "Syria-led, Syria-owned", conducts inclusive dialogue, balances security and development, actively integrates into the international community, and through political dialogue finds a national reconstruction plan that meets the people's wishes. China is willing to work with the international community to contribute to the security and stability of Syria.

Hibaani stated that Sino-Syrian relations have a long history and are strategic. Syria has great respect for China and highly values the relationship with China, expressing gratitude for China's support in maintaining Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and providing sincere assistance to the Syrian people for a long time. Syria firmly adheres to the One-China Principle, opposes any forces from undermining the One-China Principle, and firmly supports China's efforts to safeguard its core interests. Syria pays attention to China's security concerns, opposes all forms of terrorism, and does not allow any entity to use Syrian territory to engage in activities that damage China's national security, sovereignty, and interests. China's development achievements are world-renowned, and Syria is currently in dire need of reconstruction. Syria highly appreciates the important initiatives proposed by China and is willing to learn from and draw on China's experience, actively participate in the construction of the "Belt and Road Initiative", and promote the reconstruction and stable development of Syria through practical cooperation. It looks forward to continuing to receive help from China. Thank you for China's support at the United Nations, and is willing to further strengthen multilateral communication and cooperation.

After the talks, both sides issued a joint statement by the foreign ministers of China and Syria.

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