China pledges to lift ties with Micronesia

Zhang Dejiang (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, meets with Micronesian Vice President Alik Alik in Beijing, capital of China, Oct 14, 2014. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

Top Chinese legislator Zhang Dejiang on Tuesday met with the visiting Micronesian Vice President Alik Alik, pledging to seek stronger ties with the subregion of Oceania, which compromises thousands of small islands in the western Pacific Ocean.

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress(NPC), China's top legislature, reviewed the smooth development of bilateral relations since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1989.

Zhang underscored the importance China has placed on developing ties with Micronesia, saying China has offered support to Micronesia without any strings attached.

Zhang appreciated Micronesia's adherence to the one-China policy.

China would like to take the 25th anniversary of China-Micronesia diplomatic relations as a new starting point, step up friendly exchanges, deepen pragmatic cooperation and lift bilateral ties to a new high, Zhang said.

He said the NPC would like to work with the Micronesian congress, share more experience on state governance and legislature and play their roles in the political life of the two countries.

Alik said the two countries have a robust relationship and thanked China for generous support.

Alik said Micronesia has always adhered to the one-China policy and would like to work with China to boost bilateral relationship.

Earlier Tuesday, Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao gave a welcome ceremony to Alik and talked with him.