The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a United
Nations agency, said Friday that substantial progress has been made
in its relations with China during a visit to China by IOM
chief.
At the invitation of the Chinese government, IOM Director
General Brunson McKinley made an official visit to China on Monday
and Tuesday, said IOM spokesperson Niurka Pineiro.
McKinley held talks with Chinese government officials and
discussed the regular labor migration, and the possibility of joint
research projects, said Pineiro.
They also discussed measures to control irregular migration,
especially through information campaigns in areas where smugglers
are active, and high-tech applications for identity documentation
and movement management, she added.
The spokesperson said the Chinese authorities expressed their
wish to strengthen relations with IOM and further develop
cooperation through specific projects.
The two sides agreed in principle that IOM should open an office
in Beijing in the near future, he said.
"China has strengthened its interest and activity in the field
of migration management in recent years. It joined IOM as an
observer in 2001 and participates actively in international
discussions on the subject," said Pineiro.
(Xinhua News Agency August 8, 2004)