He also reiterated the one-China policy pursued by the Nigeriangovernment.

The National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, passed the 10-article Anti-Secession law on March 14 when it ended an annual session in Beijing.

"Nigeria and China have witnessed good momentum in the growth of the relationship since the beginning of the new millennium, and mutual visits by high-level officials have greatly pushed the exchanges and cooperation in every field between the two countries," he told his Chinese counterpart Li Zhaoxing during their talks.

Adeniji, as Li's guest, arrived in Beijing Wednesday afternoon for a five-day working visit to China.

Li thanked the Nigerian government for its adherence to the one-China policy and its support for China's Anti-Secession Law. He also expressed great appreciation over Nigeria's significant role in African affairs.

"During the 34 years after the two countries established diplomatic ties, China and Nigeria have seen a steady and healthy progress of the relationship," he said.

Since 1999 when Olusegun Obasanjo was elected president of Nigeria, the two countries have carried out frequent high-level exchanges and witnessed strong momentum in economic and trade cooperation, he said.

Meanwhile, the two countries strengthened consultation and cooperation in handling international and regional affairs, and bilateral ties entered a new phase of all-round development.

"China is willing to make joint efforts with Nigeria to advance the friendly and cooperative ties and make new progress one after another," he added.

(Xinhua News Agency March 26, 2005)