He was talking to a delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC), led by its International Department of the Central Committee Wang Jiarui at the State Guesthouse Padma.

They discussed matters of bilateral relations and economic cooperation at the meeting.

Terming China an "old and tested friend" of Bangladesh, he reiterated that Bangladesh always adheres to 'one-China' policy and considers Taiwan as a province of China.

"In the age of globalisation," Morshed Khan said, "Effective communication linkages are vital for further promotion of economic cooperation."

He appreciated the establishment of direct air-link between Dhaka and China and congratulated China on becoming an observer of Saarc.

The Chinese delegation leader said, "Bangladesh and China have been close friends for a long time."

He said China will continue its cooperation with Bangladesh for mutual benefit of the two peoples.

Foreign Secretary Hemayetuddin, Additional Foreign Secretary M Towhid Hossain, Director General (Far East) Shahidul Islam and Director General (EP) Zahirul Hoque also attended the meeting.

Chinese Ambassador Chai Xi and delegation members were present at the meeting.