China, Tanzania's Zanzibar vow friendly cooperation

BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met with Ali Mohamed Shein, president of Tanzania's semi-autonomous region Zanzibar, with both men pledging to boost mutual friendly cooperation.

China and Tanzania are "all-weather" friends, Xi said, noting that the two countries both agree to build and develop a comprehensive partnership based on mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.

As an important part of China-Tanzania relations, cooperation between China and Zanzibar can be moved to a higher level, he said.

Both sides should strengthen communication and planning, effectively implement existing cooperation projects, explore new fields and channels, expand and deepen cooperation at sea and in other areas such as agriculture, fishing, tourism, human resources training and healthcare, Xi added.

Chinese president stressed that China encourages more Chinese enterprises to invest and develop in Zanzibar.

"The development of Africa, a land full of hope and vitality, will be unlimited," Xi said, looking back to his African tour in March.

He pointed out that China is willing to strengthen solidarity, as well as promote common prosperity with African countries, in a bid to elevate the new strategic partnership between China and Africa to a new level.

For his part, Shein said Zanzibar is grateful for China's longstanding support and assistance.

"Being good partners hand in hand in mutual support and trust, we would like to expand exchanges and cooperation with China," he said.

In a separate meeting with Shein, Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao noted that next year China and Tanzania will mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, and the two nations should carry forward the traditional friendship.