BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that Beijing will, as always, firmly support the Republic of Congo in safeguarding its national independence and opposing foreign interference.
Xi made the statement in a meeting with Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit.
Calling Sassou Nguesso an old and good friend of the Chinese people, Xi said that the sound development of bilateral ties is inseparable from the fact that Sassou Nguesso attaches high importance to and sticks to friendship with China.
Congo stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China in international affairs, and jointly safeguard the interests of developing nations, Xi added.
He expressed his gratitude for the Congolese side for its firm support on matters concerning China’s core interests, saying that Beijing will, as always, support Congo in playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs.
China, Congo ties’ anniversary
Xi said that next year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, China is ready to make joint plans and hold grand celebrations with the Congolese side.
He added that China is willing to maintain close exchanges, boost political mutual trust and expand practical cooperation with the Congolese side, so as to push for further achievements in their comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation.
For his part, Sassou Nguesso said President Xi’s successful state trip to Congo in 2013 remains fresh in his memory.
He said that Chinese enterprises have started multiple national construction projects in Congo, and friendship and cooperation with Beijing are important factors for his country’s continuous development.
Expressing his gratitude for China for its immense support and assistance to his country, Nguesso said that he is highly looking forward to the 60th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties next year, which he hopes that both countries will take as an opportunity to push for greater development of bilateral ties.
