On the afternoon of December 2, 2002, Premier Zhu Rongji met with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Roy Chaderton Matos and his delegation at the Great Hall of the People.

Zhu spoke positively of the development of bilateral relations since China and Venezuela forged diplomatic ties. He said that China and Venezuela have seen frequent exchanges of high-level visits, enhanced trade and economic cooperation and closer consultations and coordination in international affairs in recent years. President Jiang Zemin and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez exchanged visits in April and May last year and defined a strategic partnership for common development for the two countries in the new century, which is of great significance for the development of bilateral relations in the new century. China values its relationship with Venezuela, and pledges continued efforts to further friendly ties and cooperation.

Chaderton praised China's achievements since his last visit 21 years ago, saying great changes have taken place in China. The Chinese government and people are building its future in line with existing magnificent blueprint. Venezuela greatly admires that. Venezuela attaches great importance to developing relations with China, and to develop the strategic partnership of long-term friendship and common development benefits both peoples.

Chaderton conveyed President Chavez's greetings to Zhu. Zhu expressed thanks and asked him to send his regards to the president, and also expressed condolence on the casualties caused by a blaze in Venezuela's capital Caracas last night.