On February 10, 2004, President Hu Jintao met with Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea (PNG), at the Great Hall of the People. The two sides held talks on friendly terms.

Hu said that the friendly exchanges between China and PNG have a long history. Since the establishment of diplomatic relationship, remarkable achievements have been made in the exchanges and cooperation in every field. China cherishes the traditional friendship with PNG, highly appreciates that the PNG government attaches great importance to Sino-PNG ties and stick to One-China policy. Hu Jintao pointed out that both side respect and trust each other politically. Due to high complementarity in economy, great potential exists in the fields of trade and investment cooperation. Both sides pursue peaceful foreign policies and dedicate themselves to maintaining peace and stability within the Asian-Pacific region and promoting common development. "We believe that the relationship between our two countries in the 21st century will be promoted into a new higher level so long as both sides think long-term, bear in mind our peoples' fundamental interests and fully utilize those preferential conditions."

Somare thanked Hu Jintao for the meeting. He said, since PNG established diplomatic relationship with China 28 years ago, bilateral relations have been increasingly deepened, which has brought the people of our two nations numerous actual benefits. The economic and technological assistance thatChinahas offered help PNG develop its economy and enhance the local people's living standards. Somare expressed that this visit is very successful, which he believes will further promote the friendship and cooperation between PNG and China.

Somare reiterates that the PNG side will unswervingly pursue the one-China policy. Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing was also present at the meeting.