On Thursday, Hong Lei, a spokesman for Foreign Ministry, said that China has heartily welcomed the stance of Austria not to support the separatist activities that are looking for Tibet independence.

The activities, according to the revelations of a report, have also been seeking to strengthen the territorial integrity of China.

It was while responding to a meeting held lately in Vienna that Hong came up with these comments. The consultation was held between Zhao Bin, Chinese Ambassador to Austria, and Jan Kickert, the Austrian Foreign Ministry's Political Director, last May.

The meeting with the Dalai Lama had led to a negative effect on the relations shared by Austria and China. Hong said that Kickert had felt the meeting as regrettable.

Hong added that Austria was not in favour of any secessionist activities as these were in search for Tibet independence. Austria, according to Kickert, linked much importance to growing friendly and cooperative relations with China. Kickert believed that the nation was in accordance with one-China policy and identified Tibet as part of China.

The spokesman further said that China and Austria had admitted to make progress on bilateral ties. These ties were based on mutual respect, mutual benefit, respect for core interests of one another and equality. Communication and coordination had been decided to be enhanced by both sides, Hong concluded.