China African countries strengthen ties

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The year 2007 will mark the 10th anniversary of the inauguration of diplomatic ties of the two countries. During talks, the two presidents reached extensive consensus on enhancing their countries' long-term and stable strategic partnership on the basis of equality, mutual benefits and common development.

President Hu Jintao said bilateral relations have maintained all-round and rapid development since China and South Africa established diplomatic ties nine years ago.

Mbeki said South Africa hopes the two sides' review of the progress of bilateral ties would deepen the cooperation between the two countries.

South Africa welcomed Chinese businesses to bid for the construction of the stadium for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Later, President Hu Jintao also held a welcoming ceremony for his Algerian counterpart, Abdel-aziz Bout-e-flika.