In a meeting with Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa, Li said China has always maintained close friendship with Tanzania and other African countries.

Speaking highly of the support of African countries to China on various issues, the CPPCC chairman said China attaches great importance to reconstruction and development of African countries and appreciates their achievements.

"Over the past year, under the leadership of President Mkapa, Tanzania has made an all-out effort to explore a political system and a way forward suitable for its national conditions, deepen reform and pursue economic development," Li said.

Tanzania has improved its people's living standard and maintained a stable political situation, he said. "We are very proud of your achievements."

Expressing warm welcome to Li's visit, President Mkapa said that Tanzania and China have been enjoying traditional close friendship from generation to generation.

"The close relations between the two countries have been well developed and consolidated," he said, stressing that his government is to further develop Sino-Tanzanian ties in various fields.

Mkapa reiterated that Tanzania supports China's reunification cause and will firmly adhere to the "one-China" policy.

He said African people will never forget that the Chinese government and people have contributed to the African nations' national independence and economic development.

Li arrived here on Monday afternoon for a four-day official goodwill visit, the first leg of his African tour which will also bring him to Namibia and Zambia.

(Xinhua News Agency February 11, 2003)