On the morning of January 9, 2006, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Bolivian President-elect Evo Morales in the Great Hall of the People.
Hu congratulated Morales once again on his election as Bolivian President and expressed warm welcome for his visit to China not long after his election. Hu said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 21 years ago, based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, bilateral relations have been developing smoothly. Both sides have respected each other and treated each other as equals in the political area. They have also conducted friendly cooperation in the principle of mutual benefits in the economic area and shown mutual understanding and support in international and multilateral affairs. China appreciates and thanks Bolivia for adhering to the one-China policy and offering precious support on the Taiwan question.
Morales said that the Bolivian people deem China a reliable friend and partner. To develop relations with China is one of his priority policy targets within his tenure. The Bolivian government and Morales himself will commit to keeping closer and deepening friendly cooperation with China to realize common development. He would like to emphasize again Bolivia's resolute adoption of the one-China policy.
Hu indicated that the Chinese government attaches great importance to developing bilateral relations and in the new stage of the new century China would like to make joint efforts with Bolivia in the following four aspects. First, to strengthen high-level exchanges and expand friendly contact between government agencies, legislatures and political parties of both sides. Both sides should continue to offer understanding and support to each other on major issues concerning their respective fundamental national interest. Second, to deepen bilateral economic and trade cooperation and actively discuss the possibility of expanding cooperation in investment, trade and other areas. China encourages its businesses with strengthen and good reputation to invest in Bolivia and also welcomes Bolivian businesses to develop in China. Third, to expand bilateral cooperation in the areas of culture, education, science & technology and medical care, promote dialogue and exchanges between different civilizations and build up understanding and friendship between both peoples. Fourth, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in international and multilateral affairs, safeguard the legitimate rights and interest of developing nations and contribute to world peace, stability and development. In short, China would like to make joint efforts with Bolivia to elevate their friendly cooperative relations to a new level through tangible and effective work and bring benefits to both countries and their people.
Morales expressed agreement with Hu's proposals on developing bilateral relations, noting that Bolivia hopes to expand bilateral trade scale and increase exports to China and welcomes Chinese businesses to invest there and participate in its economic development. Bolivia would like to conduct friendly exchanges with China in various areas and strengthen consultations and cooperation in international affairs.