Beijing, May 23rd—Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghan Acting Foreign Minister. 

Liu said, China and Afghanistan have similar historical experiences and the Chinese people have a natural friendly feeling towards the Afghan people. China respects the development path independently chosen by the Afghan people and adheres to the principle of non-interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs. China is willing to work with Afghanistan to take the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries as an opportunity to strengthen political dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual respect, exchange and learn from each other's experiences in state governance and administration, enhance mutual understanding and trust, continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, and promote cooperation in all fields. 

Muttaqi said, I am very glad to visit China on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and China. During this visit, I had extensive contacts with the Chinese side and achieved positive results. I am confident about the future of Afghanistan-China relations. Afghanistan and China have a thousand-year history of friendly exchanges and share similar historical experiences, understanding and sympathizing with each other. Afghanistan will not allow any force to use its territory to engage in activities that harm China's interests and is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in economy, trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, security and other fields to further promote the development of bilateral relations. The CPC is committed to serving the people and has led the Chinese people to achieve great achievements in economic and social development, especially in poverty alleviation. This sets an example for us. Afghanistan is willing to strengthen exchanges with the CPC and learn from China's successful experience. 

Sun Haiyan, Vice-minister of the IDCPC, Ahmadullah Zahid, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce of Afghanistan, and others were present.