China will continue to assist Namibia in its economic and social development, and participating in its infrastructure and industry construction, Premier Wen Jiabao pledged in Beijing Tuesday.

"China takes Namibia as a trustworthy friend and an important partner in Asia, and will enhance the traditional friendship and economic and trade cooperation based on equality, mutual benefit and common prosperity," said Wen in a meeting with visiting Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba.

He said Sino-Namibian relations have developed smoothly since the two countries forged diplomatic ties and that bilateral cooperation in all fields has deepened. China is satisfied with it, he added.

On the reform of the UN, Wen pointed out that China supports improving the representation of the developing nations, especially African countries, in the UN security council, and hopes that the African countries would unite to safeguard their own interest.

Pohamba expressed his gratitude for China's long-term assistance. He said Namibia has been committed to developing its rural economy, including roads, and railway construction. It has abundant resources of minerals and fishing, and hopes to cooperate with China on infrastructure and resources exploration.

He also expressed the hope to strengthen consultations with China in the UN and in dealing with the international affairs.

(Xinhua News Agency December 21, 2005)