Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing sent a congratulatory message Monday to Chairman of the African Union (AU) Commission Alpha Oumar Konare on the establishment of the AU Peace and Security Council.

The inauguration of the council "demonstrates the consensus among African countries on solving conflicts, consolidating regional peace and security, and promoting economic development through joint self-reliance and collective efforts", Li said in the message.

Li hoped that the council would play an active role in prompting peace and development in Africa.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to the influence of the AU and the role it plays, and supports the efforts of the AU in strengthening the solidarity of Africa, safeguarding the regional peace and security, Li said.

The Chinese government will continue to strengthen cooperation with the AU and provide due assistance within its ability for the development of the organization, Li added.

The Peace and Security Council, a core institution inside the African Union, will replace the mechanism of preventing, dealing with and solving conflicts in the Organization of African Unity.

The inaugural session of the council is scheduled to open Tuesday in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia.

(Xinhua News Agency May 25, 2004)