国内英语新闻:Chinese vice president says satisfied with ties with Botswana

GABORONE, Nov. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping said here on Monday that China is satisfied with its relations with Botswana.

In a meeting with Botswana's President Ian Khama, Xi said the bilateral ties have developed steadily and fruitfully and that both sides have kept close coordination in the international arena.

Xi, who arrived in Gaborone on Saturday for an official visit, noted that bilateral economic cooperation has maintained a good momentum in recent years, and Botswana has become one of China's vital partners in Africa.

"The Chinese side is satisfied with the development of bilateral ties," Xi was quoted as saying by a press release issued by the Chinese delegation.

He said China values its ties with Botswana, noting that China will continue to enhance political trust, expand economic cooperation and strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchange with Botswana.

"I believe the China-Botswana friendly cooperation is sure to have a promising future," he said.

The Chinese vice president also praised Botswana for its active role in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, calling for joint efforts to push forward the smooth development of the forum.

Botswana is the final leg of Xi's four-nation trip to Asia and Africa. Xi and Chinese delegation left Gaborone right after the meeting.