Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa on Wednesday hailed his country's relations with China, which he said is a all-weather friend of Zambia and a mentor of Zambia in the field of development.

He made the comment while meeting with Zhang Huaixi, vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, in the state house in Lusaka Wednesday, which coincides with the 39th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The president said the relations between the two nations have been tested in times of strife and joy during the 39 years, during which China has extended great support to Zambia in its social and economic development, as indicated by the many projects China has funded in Zambia.

The two countries also cooperated beautifully in political fields, as they share the same stance in many international forums, he said.

Mwanawasa said he is looking forward to the visit to China in early November at the invitation of Chinese President Hu Jintao.

During his first ever visit to China, Mwanawasa said he will meet Chinese leaders and seek to share China's experiences in agriculture, education and other fields.

As Zambia faces many challenges in combating poverty and hunger, he said his government is determined to overcome these challenges with the help of China.

In response, Zhang extended the Chinese president's greetings to Mwanawasa. He also said that China is looking forward to Mwanawasa's visit to China.

China, he said, attaches great importance to the forthcoming visit and is confident that it will enhance bilateral relations to a new height.

Noting that the two countries have trusted and supported each other over the decades, he particularly thanked Zambia's support to China on the Taiwan issue, and in human rights and other fields.

Earlier Wednesday, Zhang also met with Zambian Vice President Nevers Mumba and National Assembly of Zambia Speaker Amussa Mwanamwambwa. He also held working talks with the deputy speaker of the Zambian parliament, Jaston Mfula.

The CPPCC delegation led by Zhang arrived in Zambia on Sunday for a three-day visit. The delegation is on a two-country Africa tour, which had earlier taken them to South Africa.

(Xinhua News Agency October 30, 2003)