China, South Sudan vow to promote ties

BEIJING, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao held talks with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Tuesday afternoon in Beijing, agreeing to expand cooperation and advance friendly ties.

Hu said bilateral relations have had a good start although it hasn't been a long time since the two sides forged diplomatic ties, which feature increased bilateral exchanges and steady development of cooperation.

The Chinese government and people respect South Sudanese people's choice of independence, and support the country's efforts in developing its economy, improving people's livelihood, safeguarding stability and entering the international community, according to Hu.

He said bilateral friendly cooperation is in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples, and also beneficial to the development of a new type of China-Africa strategic partnership as well as regional peace and development.

South Sudan appreciates China's swift acknowledgement of the country on the very day of its founding, said Kiir.