Q: The China-Austria relationship was beset with difficulties after several Austrian political leaders met with the Dalai Lama in May, 2012. It is learned that a senior official from the Austrian Foreign Ministry met with the Chinese ambassador to Austria the other day. Would you please brief us on that?

A: Chinese Ambassador to Austria Zhao Bin met with Ambassador Jan Kickert, the Political Director of the Austrian Foreign Ministry at the request of the Austrian side in Vienna several days ago. Director Kickert said that Austrian Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister's meetings with the Dalai Lama in Vienna in May, 2012 had a negative impact on Austria-China relations, which was regrettable. Austria attaches great importance to developing friendly and cooperative relations with China, adheres to the one-China policy and recognizes Tibet as part of China. Austria does not support any separatist activities that seek Tibet independence and undermine China's territorial integrity.

China speaks positively of the above statements. The Chinese government places importance on its friendly and cooperative relations with Austria. Both sides agree to give a stronger boost to bilateral relations on the basis on mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and respect for each other's core interests and major concerns. The two countries will enhance communication and coordination to ensure the lasting, sound and sustainable growth of bilateral ties.