China hails Austria's stance on Tibet

BEIJING - China spoke highly of Austria's stance of giving no support to any separatist activities that seek Tibet independence and undermine China's territorial integrity, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Thursday.

Hong made the comments in response to a recent meeting between Political Director of the Austrian Foreign Ministry Jan Kickert and Chinese Ambassador to Austria Zhao Bin in Vienna.

According to Hong, Kickert said that it was regrettable that the Austrian chancellor and vice-chancellor's meetings with the Dalai Lama in Vienna in May last year had a negative impact on Austria-China relations.

Austria attaches great importance to developing friendly and cooperative ties with China, said Kickert, adding that the country adheres to the one-China policy and recognizes Tibet as part of China.

Austria does not support any secessionist activities that seeks Tibet independence and undermines China's territorial integrity, he said.

"China spoke positively of the above statements," said Hong in a statement, adding that the Chinese government places importance on its friendly and cooperative relations with Austria.

China and Austria agree to further forge ahead bilateral ties on the basis of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and respect for each other's core interests and major concerns, said the spokesman.

Both sides pledge to enhance communication and coordination so as to work for lasting, healthy and sustainable development of bilateral ties, Hong said.

Austrian Chancellor Werner Faymann and Vice-Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger met with the Dalai Lama respectively last year. China objected strongly to the meetings and lodged representations to the Austrian side.