In an effort to boost relations with Morocco China's President
Hu Jintao arrived in Rabat, the country's
capital on Monday for a state visit aimed at boosting relations
between China and the North African country.
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In his written speech delivered on his arrival Hu said although
China and Morocco were geographically far apart the friendship
between the two countries dated back to ancient times.
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Since the two nations forged diplomatic ties 48 years ago, Hu said,
bilateral friendly relations had continuously progressed and the
two countries had expanded their cooperation in such fields as
politics, economy, trade, health, tourism, science and technology
and conducted increasingly close consultation and cooperation in
international affairs.
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He said that during his visit, he would hold talks with the
Moroccan King, Mohammed VI and meet with other Moroccan leaders to
exchange views on bilateral relations and international and
regional issues of common interest.?
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Hu said China attached importance to their mutual dealings and
would work with Morocco to boost their friendship and cooperation
to new levels so as to gain benefits for both
countries.?
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Morocco is the third leg of Hu's five-nation tour which has already
taken him to the United States and Saudi Arabia. He will also visit
Nigeria and Kenya.
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China-Morocco trade increased by 28 percent last year to reach
US$150 million in 2005. The two sides were expected to sign a
series of agreements in such fields as trade, culture, health care
and sanitation during Hu's visit.
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(Xinhua News Agency April 25, 2006)