A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) met in Beijing Monday with Essop Pahad, Minister in Presidency of South Africa.

Wang Jiarui, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, spoke highly of the friendly and cooperative relations between China and South Africa.

The CPC will further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with African National Congress of South Africa and jointly promote bilateral ties, he said.

Wang also briefed the guest on just-concluded fifth plenary session of the 16th CPC Central Committee.

Pahad said the cooperation between African National Congress and the CPC will benefit not only bilateral ties but also cooperation between Africa and China.

South Africa will continue to beef up cooperation with China in various fields, Pahad said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 18, 2005)