Beijing Holds Reception to Mark "African Liberation Day"

Diplomatic envoys from African countries gathered here Friday to celebrate the African Liberation Day and the 38th anniversary of the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).

Chinese Vice-Premier Qian Qichen told the guests in a speech that the OAU has "worked relentlessly" over the past 38 years for the national independence and political emancipation of African countries, the maintenance of peace, stability and the preservation of the legitimate rights and interests of Africa.

He spoke highly of the strong desire and firm determination of African countries to meet challenges through solidarity, and to seek rejuvenation through cooperation. Qian expressed confidence that with the birth of the African Union, the tradition of the African people in pursuit of solidarity and unity will be carried forward, and the African continent will usher in a new century of peace, stability and development.

"China and Africa have enjoyed friendship and cooperation for more than 50 years," Qian said, adding that the two sides have carried out fruitful cooperation in all sectors under the principles of sincerity, friendship, equality and reciprocity.

He said the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, which was held here last October, set up a solid framework for the further cooperation between the two sides in the new century. "I'm sure that through our bilateral efforts, the goals set forth at the forum will be realized and the friendly relations and cooperation between China and Africa will reach a new high," said Qian.

At Friday's reception, Togolese ambassador to China Nolana Ta- Ama read a letter from Gnassingbe Eyadema, current executive chairman of OAU and president of Togo. Eleih-Elle Etian, Cameroon' s ambassador to China as well as head of the African mission in China also addressed the guests on Africa-China relations.

(xinhua 05/25/2001)