President of the Republic of Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso said in Brazzaville Sunday that China's selfless aid has played a crucial role in promoting his country's economic development.  

At a banquet to mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the president said the Republic of Congo expects further cooperation of mutual benefit with China.

Chinese Ambassador Wo Ruidi said at the banquet that the government of the Republic of Congo has firmly supported the one-China policy and the restoration of China's legitimate seat in the United Nations. The two governments have reached mutual understanding and respect and carried out close cooperation on key international and regional issues.

Meanwhile, the Chinese government has backed the Congolese people's effort for national independence and economic development, he said.

At the Second Ministerial Conference of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Ethiopia last December, President Sassou met with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Sino-Congolese cooperation, the ambassador noted.

During the talks, the two leaders reached consensus on cooperation in the political and economic fields, he added.

The Chinese ambassador promised that his country is willing to enhance cooperation in various fields with the African country.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China has provided the Republic of Congo with more than US$100 million in economic assistance and helped construct a dozen of economic projects, including the parliament building, a stadium and a power station. Last year, trade between the two countries reached US$700 million.

(Xinhua News Agency February 23, 2004)