http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-02/13/content_10810653.htm
BAMAKO, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao Thursday vowed
to increase aid to African countries, cancel part of their debts, and
expand trade with and investment in these countries.
Hu made the statement while meeting with his Malian counterpart
Amadou Toumany Toure.
Hu, making his first visit to this western African nation, was
accorded a 21-gun salute in a welcome ceremony before the two
presidents started talks.
This is Hu's second African tour since the landmark China-Africa
summit in 2006 when Hu announced eight measures to promote ties with
Africa, including massive tariff cuts and debt exemptions for scores
of African countries, and doubling aid to Africa over a three-year
period.
Hu said that as the world financial crisis has posed severe
challenges, it is of greater significance to step up China-Africa
solidarity and cooperation.
"China is paying much attention to African countries' difficulties
and concerns as the global financial crisis has begun to take a toll
on Africa," Hu said.
"We would like to increase communication and exchanges with Mali
and other African countries so that together we will tide over the
crisis," Hu said.
Following their talks, the two leaders signed cooperative deals
and gave a briefing to the media.
Hu arrived here Thursday after concluding a state visit to Saudi
Arabia.
"Both countries have achieved fruitful cooperation in various
fields over the past 49 years. China cherishes its ties with Mali and
would like to enhance our friendship and cooperation," Hu said in a
written statement upon his arrival.
The visit is aimed at consolidating friendship, deepening
cooperation, dealing with challenges and seeking common development,
Hu said.
From Mali, Hu will travel to the three African countries of
Senegal, Tanzania and Mauritius
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