ŠPIRIĆ: ONE CHINA POLICY CORE OF EXCELLENT COOPERATION

SARAJEVO, MAY 14 /SRNA/ - Chairman of the House of Peoples of the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH Nikola Špirić, stated that friendly relations and exceptional cooperation prevail between BiH and China, which are continually being improved in all areas of activity, at the core of which the One China policy.

"We highly value China's principled stance of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, the belief that all peoples in BiH must be guaranteed equal rights, and that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation," Špirić said at a conference marking 30 years of BiH - China diplomatic relations. Emphasizing BiH's interest in further advancing political, economic, and other relations with China, Špirić expressed satisfaction with the cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the China-CEEC Cooperation Mechanism /Cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European Countries/, as well as within the Belt and Road Initiative. "Through these mechanisms, cooperation agreements have been implemented in areas such as road infrastructure and the energy sector. In addition, we are committed to continuing the work of bilaterally established bodies – the Joint Business Council and the Chamber of Commerce Cooperation Committee," Špirić specified. He noted that BiH, like most countries, has a significant trade deficit with China, to the extent that trade can be considered one-sided. "Therefore, it is imperative for BiH's economy to increase exports to the Chinese market. Besides economic cooperation, we are also interested in enhancing scientific, technical, educational, and cultural cooperation," Špirić emphasized. He added that China continues to provide assistance to BiH, which is highly appreciated by the people of BiH. "Projects implemented through Chinese development assistance will be of great significance for all citizens, as they focus on education, healthcare, and improving quality of life," Špirić said, expressing confidence that BiH will keep strengthening cooperation with China. The conference marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between BiH and China was organised by the BiH-China Friendship Association, in cooperation with the Friendship Group for Asia of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly. The event brought together officials from both countries, representatives of legislative and executive authorities in BiH, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives from the business and academic communities, as well as international and non-governmental organisations.