BEIJING -- China and Africa will strengthen cooperation in countering terrorism and promoting nuclear disarmament, says an action plan adopted Sunday afternoon by China and 48 African countries attending a two-day gathering in Beijing.

The two-session round tables of Chinese and African leaders attending the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) opens at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, November 5, 2006. [Xinhua]

To strengthen consultation and cooperation in international affairs serves the common interests of both sides and other developing countries in an international environment "which is undergoing complex and profound changes," says the action plan adopted prior to the conclusion of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

China and Africa "condemn and oppose terrorism in whatever form, " and will "explore ways of counter-terrorism cooperation" with African countries, according the plan that charts the course for China-Africa cooperation in the next three years.

Recognizing a leading role of the United Nations and UN Security Council in the international campaign against terrorism, the plan says China and Africa "are opposed to double standard."

The document says "China noted with pleasure" that the African Union's convention on the prevention and combating of terrorism has entered into force and a terrorism research center has been set up in the continent.

The action plan calls for increased international cooperation in promoting nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.

"China supports Africa's efforts in realizing the objective of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in Africa on a voluntary basis," says the document, adding that China will continue to support the " humanitarian de-mining operations" in Africa and its combat against illicit trade in small arms and light weapons with financial and material assistance and related training.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation to face up to non-traditional security issues, including natural disasters, refugees and displaced persons, illegal migration, transnational crimes, drug smuggling and communicable diseases, which challenge the world peace and security.

The landmark two-day FOCAC Beijing Summit ended Sunday afternoon. Chinese President Hu Jintao, 41 heads of state or government and senior officials of 48 African countries that have diplomatic ties with China, as well as representatives from regional and international organizations attended the gathering highlighting "friendship, peace, cooperation and development."

Addressing the opening ceremony, Hu announced a package of major assistance, investment, trade and other key cooperation projects with Africa in an effort to forge a new type of strategic partnership.

Later Saturday, a high-level dialogue and entrepreneurs conference opened at the Great Hall of the People, where Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao proposed China and Africa fully tap cooperation potential.