President Jiang Zemin met with visiting Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tarik Aziz at Zhongnanhai on Nov. 28, 2000.

Jiang said that both China and Iraq are ancient countries. The Chinese and the Euphrates-Tigris Rivers civilizations have added a glorious chapter in the history of world civilizations. He added that the friendly relations between the two peoples date back to ancient times. Jiang noted that China is ready to further enhance and develop its friendly and cooperative relations with Iraq and is confident about the expansion and growth of such ties.

Jiang went on to say that the world is diversified and colorful, which is moving towards multi-polarity. China has all along opposed power politics and hegemonism in the international arena. He also expressed sympathy over the sufferings of the Iraqi people caused by the long-standing sanctions imposed on them. He stated that a just and rational solution to the Iraqi issue at an early date is conducive to peace and stability in the Gulf region and the progress and development of the world as a whole, adding that Iraq should take more measures to lift the sanctions.

Aziz conveyed Iraqi leaders' greetings to Jiang and handed over a letter from Iraqi President Saddam Hussein to Jiang. He also gave a briefing on the latest developments in his country and the

efforts made by the Iraqi government for lifting sanctions.   Aziz appreciated China's constructive and positive stand on the just cause of Iraq on such multi-lateral occasions as UN Security Council. Iraq cherishes its relationship with China, favors the multi-polar world concept advocated by China and hoped that the Iraqi-Chinese relations can be further consolidated and advanced.