The Chinese Head of State made the remarks during a meeting with his visiting Guyanese counterpart, Presudent Bharrat Jagdeo.

According to a report in China Daily, The Chnese President said he believed the visit would further promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries.

The Chinese President admitted there is great potential in bilateral economic co-operation, and the two nations complement each other on economic development.

The two states have enjoyed smooth, long-term and friendly relations with a frequent exchange of high-level visits and close co-operation in the international arena.

China and Guyana also enjoy a wide range of economic and technical co-operation. Major co-operative projects include industry and agriculture, such as Bel-Lu Claybrick Factory, Sanata Textiles Limited, Model Duck-breeding Factory and the Moco Moco Hydropower Station.

According to statistics of China General Administration of Customs, trade volume between China and Guyana in 2001 totalled US$14.78 million, with China's exports reaching US$12.41 million and imports hitting US$2.37 million.

President Jagdeo said he appreciated China's support to Guyana's development, noting that Guyana and China share similar views on many international issues and have sound co-operation in the United Nations and other international organizations.

He called on developing countries to enhance co-operation when handling political and economic unilateralism in the world.

The Chinese President said that China understood the challenges that Caribbean countries face in the process of global economic integration,

adding "China supports their efforts in this regard and is willing to develop friendly relations with Caribbean countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit."