During his meeting with visiting President Amani Abeid Karume of Zanzibar of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hu said that China will continue supporting the growth of the African Union and the implementation of the New Partnership for African Development.

The African Union replaced the Organization of African Unity in July to foster Africa's prosperity and democracy in the 21st century through social, economic and regional integration.

China stands willing to work with African countries for a new partnership of long-term stability, equality and reciprocity, said Hu.

Turning to the bilateral relationships, Hu expressed his satisfaction over its development, but highlighted the possibility for better economic ties.

According to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Hu said that the Chinese Government supports the nation's enterprises to invest and set up factories in Tanzania, conduct other mutually beneficial cooperation, and participate in the economic development of the African country.

Hu's remarks were received warmly by Karume, who said that his country is willing to strengthen economic cooperation with China.

Karume also praised China's reduction and cancellation of debts owed by African countries.

China and Zanzibar of the United Republic of Tanzania yesterday signed an agreement under which the two countries agree to conduct economic and technical cooperation.

(China Daily August 22, 2002)