China, Zambia reaffirm to seek stronger relationship (3)

Banda appreciated China's long-term support and assistance to Zambia, describing a railway line connecting Tanzania and Zambia as the symbol of bilateral friendship.

The about-1,860-kilometer railway, one of the largest foreign-aid project undertaken by China, was financed and constructed by China in the 1970s. More than 60 Chinese died in constructing the railway.

After the outbreak of the global financial crisis, while other investors were pulling out and laying off employees, Chinese businesses, instead, continued to invest and operate in Zambia, a move that significantly improved the African country's confidence to overcome difficulties, Banda said.

Banda said his country would like to work more closely with China in trade, agriculture, mineral resources, infrastructure, health, among others.

Banda on Thursday held talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao before they witnessed the signing of a package of cooperation deals.


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