China and Ecuador hold third round of political consultations

China and Ecuador began their third round of political consultations, aimed at promoting the development of bilateral relations. At the routine consultation session between the two countries' foreign ministries, visiting Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhou Wenzhong expressed thanks to Ecuador's President Lucio Gutierrez for his efforts in advancing bilateral relations.
"There exist many possibilities to increase our cooperation," and the goal was possible through mutual respect, non-intervention in each other's internal affairs and the strengthening of world peace, Zhou said.

In a brief speech at the Diplomatic Academy of the Ecuadorian Foreign Ministry, Zhou said, in the international arena "We must cope with the challenges posed by globalisation. Thus it is necessary to develop cooperation and the exchange of experiences, opportunities and capabilities."
He said Chinese entrepreneurs were interested in investing in different areas in Ecuador, such as the oil sector, and important steps had been taken during President Gutierrez's visit to China in August.

During Gutierrez's visit to China, the two countries signed a contract authorizing China's National Petroleum Corporation exploration for oil in Ecuador. At the meeting, the two foreign ministries pledged to enhance cooperation.
On the Taiwan issue, the Ecuadorian side reiterated its adherence to the one-China policy.