China, as the largest developing country in the world and a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, will continue to promote the United Nations to play a role in solving the African issue, said Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Beijing Tuesday.
 
During talks Jean Ping, president-elect of the 59th Session of the UN General Assembly, Li said the African issue is vital to world peace and development, and the United Nations should input more and help properly settle conflicts in Africa.

The United Nations should help African countries to realize their Millennium Development Goals as scheduled and strengthen contact and coordination with regional organizations in Africa, he said.

Jean Ping, also minister of state and minister of foreign affairs, cooperation and Francophone of Gabon, said the United Nations should take further action to help African countries to step on the road of revitalization and development.

He said China has important influence in international affairs and the United States needs more help from China as the international organization is now at the crossroads.

Li and Jean Ping also exchanged views on the work of the 59th Session of the UN General Assembly, celebrations for the 60th founding anniversary of the United Nations, the UN reform, and China-Gabon relations, as well as regional and international issues of common concern.

(Xiinhua News Agency August 24, 2004)