By Huang Xingwei

    WELLINGTON, Sept. 1 (Xinhua) -- Micronesian Foreign Minister Lorin Robert said the Beijing Paralymics is a significant event following the great success of the Beijing Olympics. He was confident that China will also host a successful Paralymics.

    In a written interview with Xinhua on Monday, Robert said, "Paralymics are special events. They show our deep love and affection for those participating in the games. Despite their difficulties and special needs, they are still human beings that deserve our love, respect, and recognition for their achievements in sport."

    Robert, who will attend the opening ceremony of Beijing Paralymics this month, said it was a moving emotional experience when he watched a taped opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games.

    "The Chinese government and people should be congratulated for the excellent arrangements and preparations for the Olympic Games. The magnitude and scope of works as well as the actual conduct of the games themselves are befitting the great host country of China," he said in the interview.

    On bilateral ties, the foreign minister said since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1989, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and China have been enjoying a truly excellent bilateral relations that has matured and further strengthened to mutual benefits.

    "Our two countries have an excellent working relations not only in our region but at the global level as well. The FSM attaches great importance to its relations with China that we consider it as a 'model relations' for others to appreciate," he said.

    "It is for this reason that the FSM shares the same sentiments with China in hosting the Games. FSM, as a close friend of China, also shares in the glory of the success of the Games," he added.