Chinese prsident opens China´s first trade cooperation zone in Zambia

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-06-2007 08:35

Earlier in Zambia, President Hu opened China's first economic and trade cooperation zone. The President called this a showcase for a higher Chinese-African partnership.

This inauguration sets a milestone in Sino-African relations.

It's the first economic and trade zone China has launched on this continent, and there're promises of more to come.

The new zone in Zambia will form a copper production chain. It will also boost the development of Zambia's light industry, exports and employment.

Over the next three years, China will establish three to five such zones in Africa.

Hu Jintao said the inauguration opens a new page in two-way relations, and he hopes the zone will serve as a model for growing cooperation.

He called for qualified Chinese companies to invest in and contribute to Africa's overall development.

Debt cancellation and zero-tariff treatment should also help spur Zambia's economy.

Zambian President Levy Patrick Mwanawasa promised to improve the investment environment. He expects the new zone to attract expertise and know-how.

On the sidelines of the launch, Hu Jintao met with the speaker of Zambia's National Assembly.

The two agreed on the importance of links between the two legislatures is crucial, and promised to keep close contact in fields that include agriculture, education, health and culture.

Hu Jintao also met with former Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda.

They reviewed the development of half a century's friendship, including China's assistance in building a railway for Zambia 30 years ago.

Hu Jintao is on a eight-nation African tour. He will also visit South Africa, Mozambique and the Seychelles.

Editor:Du Xiaodan