Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan on Thursday held talks with his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Kikwete here.

During the talks, Tang said China appreciates the Tanzanian government's support for the "one-China" principle and China's peaceful national reunification.

Tang reiterated that China will work together with Tanzania to tighten the bilateral relationship, which has been well developed over the past 37 years.

Kikwete said more Chinese businessmen are welcome to invest in Tanzania, and the government will provide a sound investment environment and favorable policies for them.

He said Tanzania will always be a friend of the Chinese people, and will firmly back China on such major issues as Taiwan and human rights.

Kikwete expressed gratitude for China's long-term sincere and unselfish aid to Tanzania.

In recent years, he said, cooperation between the two countries in various sectors has strengthened, in the sphere of trade in particular.

Following the talks, Tang and Kikwete signed an agreement on setting up a mechanism of political consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries.

At the invitation of the Chinese foreign minister, Kikwete arrived here Wednesday for a five-day official visit.

(Xinhua 06/08/2001)