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Russia to join China in containing toxic slick
(China Daily)
Updated: 2005-12-14 06:20
KUALA LUMPUR: Premier Wen Jiabao Tuesday pledged to work with Russia to
contain a river-borne toxic slick, which was caused by an explosion at a Chinese
chemical plant and is expected to hit Russian territory this week.
In a brief discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines
of the first Russia-ASEAN summit, Wen and Putin agreed that the November 13
incident should not harm bilateral relations, Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu
Jianchao told reporters.
"Putin has noted the important measures taken by China and said that he hopes
that both sides can continue their co-operation on mitigating the damage brought
on by this pollution incident," Liu said.
The comments came a day after the two countries launched a joint mission to
monitor the flow of the toxic spill, which dumped 100 tonnes of benzene
compounds into China's Songhua River, as it edges near Russia's Amur River.
Wen also met with Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Clark yesterday on
strengthening mutual political trust and economic co-operation.
The premier said China supports a transparent and open East Asia
co-operation, welcoming New Zealand to attend the East Asia Summit.
Clark said New Zealand enjoys a close relationship with
East Asia, and is willing to consult with China during the summit.
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