On May 30, 2007, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan met with visiting former Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Al-Jaafari in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai.

Tang said China is always concerned with the situation in Iraq and supports the Iraqi government's efforts for stability, reconciliation and reconstruction. "China will work with the international community to play its due role in helping Iraq achieve stability and development," said Tang. "China values its relations with Iraq and will strengthen economic and trade cooperation and exchanges with Iraq on the basis of mutual respect, equality and reciprocal benefit," said Tang.

Jaafari expressed admiration of China's enormous achievements in political, economic and social development. He also appreciated and thanked for China's contributions to the stability and development in Iraq.

The delegation headed by Jaafari is visiting China at the invitation of Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.