Yan Junqi, a senior Chinese legislator, met here Tuesday with visiting Tongan Foreign and Defense Minister Sonatane Tupou, pledging to promote the further development of China-Tonga ties.
Yan, vice chairwoman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, hailed the smooth development of bilateral ties since the establishment of diplomatic ties 10 years ago, saying the Chinese government is ready to make joint efforts with Tonga to raise the ties to a higher level.
She also spoke highly of the relations between the two armed forces, citing frequent high-level visits and cooperation on training.
Yan explained the Tongan guests on the Chinese government's policies on Taiwan, and briefed them on the May 12 earthquake in Sichuan Province and the Chinese government and people's relief efforts.
Tupou expressed the Tongan government's condolences and sympathy over the deadly disaster in China, saying Tonga was happy to provide support and assistance together with the international community.
He said Tonga recognizes Taiwan as a province of China and will continue to stick to the one-China policy and oppose "Taiwan independence", adding he believed Tonga-China relationship was developing well and had a broad prospect for further development.