Visiting Sudanese First Vice President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday expressed hope that China keeps on supporting Sudan's peace and development process.

Mayardit also appreciated China's efforts in strengthening bilateral friendship, while holding talks with Wang Jiarui, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

Wang reiterated that China will continue to support Sudan's peace, unification and development, and the peaceful settlement of the Darfur issue.

In addition to Beijing, Mayardit will visit China's financial hub Shanghai and southwest municipality of Chongqing during his six-day tour.

(Xinhua News Agency July 19, 2007)