African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Alpha Oumar Konare
said Tuesday the AU has always attached importance to its
cooperation with China.
During his talks with visiting Chinese envoy Zhai Jun, Konare
spoke highly of the friendly cooperative relations between China
and AU and African countries.
He said such ties have been developed vigorously following the
Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, held in
November 2006.
He said the AU will, as always, stick to the one-China policy,
adding that the AU will work together with China to further develop
the Africa-China ties.
Zhai, also assistant minister of foreign affairs, extended
greetings to Konare from President Hu Jintao and other Chinese
leaders.
Zhai hailed the significant role that the AU has played in
various aspects, including the maintenance of Africa's peace and
security and the promotion of Africa's integration process.
The Chinese government will continue to support the AU in
playing a bigger role in regional and international affairs, he
said.
Zhai also said the Chinese government will enhance the
traditional friendship with Africa and make sure the Chinese and
African people will benefit from the results of the China-Africa
cooperation.
Zhai and his entourage arrived here on Monday. The Chinese
delegation, led by Zhai, will attend the upcoming 10th AU summit as
observers.
(Xinhua News Agency January 30, 2008)