In a meeting Thursday with Amani Abeid Karume, president of Zanzibar of the United Republic of Tanzania, Jiang said China values its traditional friendship with Tanzania.

He noted that China and Tanzania have enjoyed a long and close friendship shaped and cultivated by generations of leaders of both nations.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 38 years ago, Jiang said, bilateral friendly cooperation has developed in an all round way while fruitful results have been made in exchanges and cooperation in the political, economic, trade, cultural, educational and health sectors.

Noting that mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples have been deepening, Jiang said he was satisfied with this momentum and appreciated Tanzania's insistence on maintaining the "one-China" policy.

He spoke highly of Tanzania's achievements in maintaining national stability and promoting economic progress.

He also expressed appreciation of Tanzania's efforts in safeguarding the unity of Africa, and its important role in promoting regional cooperation and integration, Jiang said.

Karume thanked the Chinese government for its political support and economic assistance to Tanzania over the years, adding that Tanzania is willing to learn from China's successful experiences in reform and opening up and strengthen unity and cooperation with China.

He reiterated that Tanzania will remain firm with regard to the "one-China" policy, adding that he hopes China will achieve reunification at an early date.

( August 23, 2002)