MINSK, 8 May (BelTA) – China-Belarus bilateral relations are based on the strategic long-term interests, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in an article published in today's issue of the SB. Belarus Today newspaper, BelTA has learned.
"We have achieved progress in the development of the Chinese-Belarusian relations because we have been building the bilateral relations based on our strategic long-term interests, because we strongly support the path of development chosen by each of the countries in accordance with its national specifics, because we cooperate closely in international and regional affairs, and because the starting point and the ultimate goal of any cooperation project has been to strengthen the Chinese-Belarus friendship,” the Chinese leader is convinced.
He noted that both countries are going through an important period of development. In China, people have been working towards the dream of the great national rebirth. Belarus has accelerated the structural economic reforms and industry modernization, has been working to achieve the goal set out in the national social and economic development strategy by 2030. "Consequently, our countries must and can combine the development strategies and create a community of shared interests and a common destiny," said Xi Jinping.
In his article the Chinese President shared his vision of the further development of the bilateral relations. For example, Xi Jinping believes the two countries need to enhance the level of political trust and mutual support. “Strong support of each other in the matters concerning the core interests and major concerns of the two countries such as sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, security and development interests are the cornerstone and the main content of the Chinese-Belarusian relations of comprehensive strategic partnership. China is ready to step up efforts jointly with Belarusian partners to support the steps to protect national interests, to promote the country’s development and revival, jointly defend our fundamental interests,” he said.
According to the Chinese leader, it is important to deepen pragmatic cooperation and expand the scope of shared interests. "In the process of promoting the Silk Road Economic Belt initiative China will share the development experiences with Belarus, and ensure that our own development will benefit the people of Belarus. We welcome the participation of Belarus, which has unique geographical advantages, in the Silk Road Economic Belt project, and encourage investment and opening of Chinese enterprises in the Republic of Belarus. As before, we will provide, to the extent possible, the economic support and assistance to Belarus,” he said.
"It is important to identify the potential of cooperation, enrich its forms, expand its channels and level thus reinforcing the material foundation of the Chinese-Belarusian relations of all-round strategic partnership," Xi Jinping said.
Promoting the links in the humanitarian field is very important for strengthening the traditional friendship, the Chinese leader said. China is ready to set up a cultural center in Belarus. "We are interested in seeing more Belarusian friends visit China to study, do business and establish business contacts. We suggest expanding continuous friendly exchange and promoting cooperation in sport, mass media, art, youth affairs, bearing in mind that it is very important to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples,” he said.