African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Alpha Oumar Konare said Tuesday the AU has always attached importance to its cooperation with China.

During his talks with visiting Chinese envoy Zhai Jun, Konare spoke highly of the friendly cooperative relations between China and AU and African countries.

He said such ties have been developed vigorously following the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, held in November 2006.

He said the AU will, as always, stick to the one-China policy, adding that the AU will work together with China to further develop the Africa-China ties.

Zhai, also assistant minister of foreign affairs, extended greetings to Konare from President Hu Jintao and other Chinese leaders.

Zhai hailed the significant role that the AU has played in various aspects, including the maintenance of Africa's peace and security and the promotion of Africa's integration process.

The Chinese government will continue to support the AU in playing a bigger role in regional and international affairs, he said.

Zhai also said the Chinese government will enhance the traditional friendship with Africa and make sure the Chinese and African people will benefit from the results of the China-Africa cooperation.

Zhai and his entourage arrived here on Monday. The Chinese delegation, led by Zhai, will attend the upcoming 10th AU summit as observers.

(Xinhua News Agency January 30, 2008)