China, Ethiopia pledge to push for new progress in bilateral relations

ADDIS ABABA, May 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and his Ethiopian counterpart, Hailemariam Desalegn, vowed here Sunday to strive for new progress in the development of the bilateral comprehensive cooperative partnership.

In his talks with the Ethiopian prime minister, Li lauded the profound traditional friendship between the two countries and the steady deepening of bilateral cooperation, expressing the hope that his visit will further consolidate China-Ethiopia friendship and steer China-Ethiopia and China-Africa relations toward new achievements.

Noting that strengthening bilateral cooperation serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both sides, Li stressed that his country stands ready to make concerted efforts with Ethiopia to maintain the momentum of high-level mutual visits so as to further cement mutual political trust.

The two sides, Li proposed, should prioritize cooperation in infrastructure construction and development of energy and resources while expanding mutual beneficial collaboration in such fields as light rail and highway construction.

Beijing supports Ethiopia's efforts in establishing special economic zones and industrial parks, and is willing to share experience with Ethiopia in this regard in an unreserved manner and transfer to Ethiopia industries and technologies that suit the development needs of local communities, added Li.

China will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises and financial institutions to invest in Ethiopia's domestic construction, Li said, adding that Beijing hopes that the Ethiopian side will provide a better business environment and investment facilitation measures for Chinese firms.

Meanwhile, China is also ready to work with Ethiopia to boost cooperation in such areas as culture, education, health, technology and tourism, and enhance bilateral communication and coordination on major global and regional affairs so as to safeguard the legitimate rights of development countries.

For his part, Hailemariam extended a warm welcome for the Chinese leader, saying the comprehensive cooperation between Ethiopia and China has promoted Ethiopia's economic growth and transformation.