Chinese president concludes five-nation trip

Source: Xinhua | 02-18-2009 08:18

PORT LOUIS, Feb. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao left here for home Tuesday, wrapping up his five-nation trip.

The trip, which was described as "a journey of friendship and cooperation" and started on Feb 10, has taken him to Saudi Arabia, Mali, Senegal, Tanzania and Mauritius.

During his trip, Hu met leaders of the five countries on the further development of friendship and cooperation. The Chinese president and his counterparts agreed to make joint efforts to push bilateral relations to a higher level.

In Tanzania, Hu delivered a keynote speech at the welcoming rally staged by people from various sectors in Dar es Salaam.

On behalf of the Chinese government, Hu said in his address that China will earnestly follow through on the various measures announced at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in 2006.

"We will continue to increase assistance to Africa and cut debts owed by African countries as our ability permits. We will expand trade and investment and strengthen practical cooperation with Africa," he said.

China and the five countries signed a series of cooperation documents during Hu's visit.

Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai Jun said on Feb. 6 that Hu's visits to Saudi Arabia and the African countries were aimed at promoting cooperation between China and developing nations and consolidating Sino-Arabian and Sino-African relationships.

Editor:Liu Anqi