China, Republic of Congo issue joint communique to boost ties

BRAZZAVILLE, March 30 (Xinhua) -- China and the Republic of the Congo issued on Saturday a joint communique on the agreements reached by the two nations' presidents, as well as their common desire to promote bilateral ties and expand cooperation in the future.

"The two heads of state agree to build, on the basis of traditional friendship between the two sides, a China-Republic of the Congo comprehensive cooperative partnership of solidarity and mutual assistance," said the communique issued after Friday's meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Denis Sassou Nguesso, the president of the Republic of the Congo.

Xi, who arrived in Brazzaville on Friday for a two-day state visit to the central African nation, exchanged views with Sassou Nguesso on issues concerning bilateral, regional and international affairs, and reached broad consensus.

On bilateral ties, the two presidents are satisfied to see that the friendly and cooperative relationship between the two countries has been constantly deepened and consolidated since its establishment 49 years ago.

That relationship meets the interests of the two peoples and has played a positive role in promoting the two countries' development, according to the communique.

On issues concerning their respective major interests, and during periods of difficulties, the two countries have provided each other with assistance and support, the communique said.

The two heads of state pledged to continue to support each other on issues regarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. President Sassou Nguesso reaffirmed his country's commitment to the one-China policy, and its support for the Chinese government's efforts to achieve national unification.

The two heads of state agreed that China and the Republic of the Congo are economically complementary and enjoy great potential in their practical cooperation. The Chinese government, as what it has done in the past, has promised to assist the economic and social development in the Republic of the Congo within its capacities.