China, Angola to boost bilateral cooperation

LUANDA - China and Angola have agreed to enhance cooperation in infrastructure construction and agriculture, as well as to support more Chinese investment in the African country, leaders of the two countries said on Friday.

At a joint press conference held after talks between visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, Li stressed that Angola is an important cooperative partner for China and both countries view each other as an opportunity for development.

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Calling their talks "fruitful," the Chinese premier said the two sides have agreed to set up a working group to make comprehensive plans for China-Angola cooperation in key areas.

On infrastructure, the two countries should connect Angola's vast demand for infrastructure construction with China's strength in production capacity, technology and foreign reserves, and take advantage of market power to promote relevant cooperation to a higher level, Li told reporters.

On agriculture, China is ready to share technology and experience with Angola in an unreserved manner, said the Chinese premier.

In addition, China is willing to maintain closer people-to-people exchanges with Angola, supporting the African nation in strengthening personnel training and expanding youth employment, Li said.

Noting that around a million Chinese nationals are working and living in Africa, and 260,000 in Angola alone, Li said China supports capable and reputable Chinese enterprises to invest in Africa, participating in Angola's economic and social development and create more local jobs.

He asked Chinese enterprises and nationals in Angola to abide by local laws and respect local culture, while expressing hope that the Angolan side would ensure their safety and provide more convenience for their work and life.

Dos Santos, for his part, said China is a good friend and partner for Angola and that bilateral cooperation is of mutual benefit.

Noting that Li's visit has promoted Angola-China relations to a new level, the president pledged to work with China to fully tap their complementary advantages, increase exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and continue to provide safe and sound environment for Chinese enterprises and individuals investing and doing business in Angola.

Angola is the third leg of Li's four-nation Africa tour, which has already taken him to Ethiopia and Nigeria. He will also travel to Kenya.