MINSK - To develop "all-round ties" with China is a top priority in Belarus' foreign policy, Belarussian Foreign Minister Sergei Martynov said in a recent interview.

Belarus and China confirmed their strategic partnership in 2005 through a joint declaration, and their bilateral cooperation and partnership are based on trust, said Martynov.

China and Belarus will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties next January.

Belarus and China have consistent stances on key international issues, Martynov said, adding that "the two countries share a single fundamental geopolitical orientation".

"The cooperation between Belarus and China in the UN and the Non-Aligned Movement is sustainable, constructive and dynamic," Martynov  said.

The foreign minister stressed Belarus firmly sticks to the one-China policy and that its position on the Taiwan question has been consistent.

Talking about the two countries' economic ties, Martynov raised some numbers. "Twenty years ago, when Belarus became an independent state, our volume (of bilateral trade) was $30 million, while the number is expected to amount to 3 billion dollars this year," Martynov said.

He also mentioned two joint ventures which share technologies of both countries, and a large industrial park to be established in Belarus by the two sides to develop high technologies.

"Belarus is ready to become a springboard for China's economic performance in Europe and, of course, we would like to see more Chinese tourists in Belarus," he said.