On September 14, Premier Zhu Rongji met with Tajik Prime Minister Akilov on the sidelines of the first summit of the six prime ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Zhu said that the people of the two countries have forged traditional friendship and the friendly exchanges could date back to age of “Silk Road”. We are pleased to note that Tajikistan achieved a great success in developing its economy and improving people’s life since its independence. Friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries have developed rapidly, which are the results of joint efforts of both sides and a symbol of China-Tajikistan friendly cooperation. China will continue to support, as always, the efforts made by Tajikistan in consolidating national sovereignty and independence and developing its national economy. China is ready to enhance cooperation with Tajikistan in the political, economic and trade fields to constantly promote China-Tajikistan relations.

Akilov thanked Zhu for the meeting. He said that the friendship between the people of Tajikistan and China dates back to a long time ago. They are good neighbors. The Tajik government attaches great importance to developing friendly relations with China and sincerely thanks China’s support and assistance to Tajikistan since its independence. President Jiang was warmly welcomed by the Tajik people during his visit to Tajikistan last year, which has greatly promoted the friendly feelings of the Tajik people towards China. Tajikistan is eager to strengthen friendly cooperation with China, particularly in the field of economy and trade.