CRI听力:China, Zimbabwe agree to establish comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation

The presidents of China and Zimbabwe have agreed to establish a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation between their two countries.

The two heads of state reached the agreement during their talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

President Xi Jinping said Zimbabwe and its people have started a new journey in the building of the country since Emmerson Mnangagwa took office last November.

Hailing the long-term close ties between the two countries, Xi Jinping said the China-Zimbabwe relationship is facing new opportunities.

"China stands ready to work with Zimbabwe to jointly lay out the new blueprint of bilateral cooperation to continue the relationship and better benefit the two peoples."

Xi Jinping said China and Zimbabwe are "all-weather friends," stressing that the two countries have always weathered hard times together, no matter how the international landscape changes.

He added that the bilateral friendship will emerge even stronger.

He also encouraged both sides to enhance cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative, and continue to promote cooperation in terms of infrastructure, agriculture, investment and financing.

Mnangagwa, who is on a state visit to China, congratulated Xi Jinping on his election as Chinese president while speaking highly of his vision on state governance.

"We also congratulate and applaud you and your vision and foresight on thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. Zimbabwe stands committed to strengthening the excellent historical relations between our nations, which predates our independence."

Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe will adhere to the one-China policy and promote the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation with China, enhance cooperation in areas including trade, investment, technology and infrastructure.

He added Zimbabwe stands committed to deepening Africa-China friendship, and supports China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Calling China-Africa friendship the "precious wealth of both sides," Xi Jinping said that as stated at the 19th CPC National Congress, China will work with all countries to build a new type of international relations and a community with a shared future for humanity, and it will enhance unity and cooperation with developing countries, including African countries.

China's assistant foreign minister Chen Xiaodong said that cooperation between China and African countries is prosperous in many aspects with the principle of mutual respect.

"Our cooperation with Africa is in line with the principle of mutual respect and equal treatment without any additional political conditions. We stick to the principle that our cooperation should benefit the economic and social development of African countries. Many cooperation projects have brought tangible benefits for local economic development, offered job opportunities and helped independent development of the local economy."

The official said Zimbabwe will grant visa-on-arrival for Chinese travelers to facilitate their trips to Zimbabwe.

After the talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing of bilateral documents on economic and technology cooperation.