During a meeting with Obasanjo, Wen suggested that the two countries improve cooperation in energy resources exploration, infrastructure construction and equipment manufacturing.

China and Nigeria set up full diplomatic ties in 1971. The trade volume between the two countries reached 2.18 billion US dollars in 2004. Nigeria is now China's second largest export market and fourth largest trade partner in Africa.

On Thursday, China and Nigeria signed five economic agreements covering investment, telecommunications service, technological support and other areas.

Wen said China cherishes its traditional friendship with African countries. He highlighted the role of the China-African Cooperation Forum, saying it has become an effective mechanism to promote dialogue and cooperation between China and African countries.

He went on to say that China supports the development of the African Union and the implementation of the New Partnership for African Development.

Obasanjo, who is in China for a four-day state visit, said he was pleased with the strong growth of China-Nigeria economic cooperation.

He said he hoped that China would actively take part in the construction of Africa's infrastructure and support Africa within the framework of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.

Obasanjo arrived in Beijing on Thursday morning as guest of Chinese President Hu Jintao. On Thursday Hu met with Obasanjo for several hours, agreeing to build a "strategic partnership" between the two countries.

This is Obasanjo's third visit to China since assuming the presidency in February 1999. He is now visiting China in the duel capacity of Nigerian president and rotating president of the African Union.

After leaving Beijing, he will visit central China's Hubei Province and Shanghai.

(Xinhua News Agency April 16, 2005)