Xi says China respects Mongolia's independence, but stresses joint development
China respects neighbour's independence but is willing to offer opportunities, president says
President Xi Jinping said China respected the independence and integrity of Mongolia as he wrapped up a two-day trip to the resource-rich but sometimes suspicious neighbour.
Xi spoke to the Mongolian parliament yesterday after the two nations had signed a series of trade deals and promised to upgrade their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
"China respects Mongolian independence and integrity," Xi said. "Both nations should give mutual firm support to each other in core issues concerning sovereignty, security and territorial integrity,
"China is willing to offer opportunities to Mongolia and other neighbours for common development. You can take a ride on our express train or just hitchhike. All are welcome."
Xi is the first Chinese president to speak at the State Great Hural of Mongolia. When his predecessor, Hu Jintao , visited in 2003, he said both nations needed to build trust.
A joint declaration on Thursday pledged that neither side would take action that would damage the other's sovereignty. The two also committed to almost double bilateral trade to US$10 billion by 2020, and to deepen business ties.