国内英语新闻:Chinese, Mozambican PMs agree to further build cooperation

BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao held talks with his Mozambican counterpart Aires Bonifacio Baptista Ali here on Thursday, vowing to facilitate bilateral cooperation in energy, mine exploration and agriculture fields.

Wen hailed the progress of bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were forged 35 years ago, saying that the two countries always had supported each other's core interests and major concerns.

China values its relations with Mozambique and hopes to maintain high-level exchanges with the country and enhance consultations at various levels, Wen said.

He stressed bilateral coordination within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and other international organizations including the United Nations.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) shakes hands with his Mozambican counterpart Aires Ali in Beijing, China, June 17, 2010.

Ali, who is on a six-day China tour, appreciated China's support to his country in its national independence cause and country building.

He told Wen that Mozambique attaches great importance to its relations with China and firmly adheres to the one-China policy. He invited more Chinese companies to invest in his country.

In response, Wen said China encourages reliable and promising Chinese companies to invest in Mozambique, calling on both sides to explore cooperation in energy, agriculture and mine exploitation.

The Chinese premier said China had offered unconditional economic and technological aid to Mozambique over the years, vowing to continue to help the country improve its people's living standards.

Ali arrived in Beijing on Wednesday to start his working visit to China. Besides Beijing, he will also visit central China's Hubei Province and Shanghai.