China and the Africa Union (AU) Sunday held their third strategic dialogue to boost cooperation in Shanghai.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and AU Commission Chairman Jean Ping co-chaired the dialogue, the first of which was held in 2008.

While extending an welcome to Jean Ping on attending the closing ceremony of the Shanghai World Expo slated for Sunday night, Yang said China attaches great importance to friendly ties with the AU, adding that there is much potential to expand bilateral cooperation.

"China is satisfied with development of our country's relations with the AU," said Yang, "China is willing, from a strategic perspective, to keep expanding strategic dialogue between the two sides and improving political trust, and further coordination in major global issues with the AU."

Yang also said China was willing to enlarge exchange visits of personnel, and boost exchange and cooperation in diverse fields with the AU, in a bid to advance development of China-African relations.

"China firmly supports AU's capability building and its endeavor in safeguarding regional peace and stability, and will continue to provide it with help within China's capacity," said Yang.

Jean Ping congratulated China on its achievements in reform and opening-up, and on its successful hosting of the Shanghai World Expo.

He thanked China for its development aid and support in international affairs.

The AU commission chief also expressed his hope to work with China to expand cooperation in various areas, including infrastructure and to build a win-win Africa-China partnership.

The AU firmly adheres to the one-China policy and opposes external forces interfering in China's internal affairs, Jean Ping said.

Both sides also exchanged views over Sino-Africa Cooperation Forum and other international and regional issues of common concerns.