Chinese President Hu Jintao on Thursday pledged to further improve China-Senegal relations while talking with his Senegalese counterpart Abdoulaye Wade.

 

"The resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Senegal last October turns over a new leaf in bilateral relations," said Hu.

 

China and Senegal resumed diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level on October 25 last year, China severed its ties with Senegal in 1996 after Dakar "recognized" the island of Taiwan.

 

"The fact proves that China-Senegal friendship complies with the common aspiration of the two peoples and accords with the historic trend of peace, cooperation and development," Hu said.

 

Hu added that China will maintain friendly exchanges with Senegal at governmental, legislative and party levels, so to reinforce mutual trust.

 

China will enhance cooperation with Senegal in such fields as agriculture, resource development and infrastructure, said Hu, adding that China will help Senegal train personnel and restart sending medical teams to the African country.

 

Wade, starting a six-day state visit to China on Wednesday, felt "proud to make the two countries resume diplomatic ties" in his presidency, saying Senegal will develop lasting and stable friendship with China.

 

Wade expressed its hope that China could participate in Senegal's economic development.

 

After their talks, the two countries also signed a series of agreements.

 

Wade is scheduled to meet top legislator Wu Bangguo and top political advisor Jia Qinglin on Friday. The visit will also take Wade to Shenzhen City, south China's Guangdong Province, and China's financial hub Shanghai.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 23, 2006)