China and South Africa held their first strategic dialogue in Beijing Wednesday, according to a statement released by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui and his South African counterpart Aziz Pahad, the statement said.

The two sides briefed each other their foreign strategy and policy on African affairs, exchanged views on bilateral ties and international and regional affairs, reaching broad consensus.

According to the statement, both sides agreed that the dialogue, held between the two important developing countries, helped promote mutual understanding and mutual trust, and enhance bilateral communication and coordination on major issues.

It was also of great significance to deepen bilateral strategic partnership and a new type of China-Africa strategic partnership so to build a harmonious world of lasting peace and common prosperity.

The statement said both sides were satisfied with the results of the first strategic dialogue and would like to further strengthen cooperation under the mechanism.

The two sides agreed to build the dialogue into an effective mechanism to advance bilateral ties.

(Xinhua News Agency April 24, 2008)