Jia Qinglin (L), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, meets Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki in Nairobi April 24, 2007. (Xinhua Photo)

China and Kenya agreed here Tuesday to push forward the all-round growth of bilateral long-term, steady and reciprocal cooperation.

The consensus was reached at a meeting between Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, and Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki.

Jia, who arrived here Monday on an official good-will visit as guest of Kenyan government, expressed appreciation for the continuous development of bilateral relations and closer consultations and cooperation in international affairs since the two countries established diplomatic ties 44 years ago.

He also expressed appreciation for Kenya's one-China policy and support for China on such issues as Tibet.

He made a four-point proposal for the further development of bilateral relations.

The first is to keep bilateral high-level contacts, push forward substantial cooperation, and continue coordination and cooperation in major international and regional affairs.

The second is to further economic and trade cooperation that requires the two sides to better carry out key cooperative projects and provide convenience for two-way investment.

The Chinese side encourages more import from Kenya and more investment in Kenya.

The third is to expand bilateral cultural, educational, health and press cooperation.

The fourth is to tackle the potentials for bilateral cooperation in tourism.

Kibaki spoke highly of the continuous development of bilateral relations which the Kenyan side pays much attention to.

He said Kenya will make concerted efforts with China to push for the sound and steady growth of bilateral cooperation in various fields including economy and trade.

He said the Kenyan side has always held that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory and it will continue to abide by a one-China policy.

Jia said China will join African countries including Kenya in better implementing the achievements made during the Beijing Summit of the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation, and promoting Sino-African substantial cooperation and the economic and social development of African countries.

Kibaki said Kenya will strengthen cooperation for the better implementation of the Beijing summit results.

They also exchanged views on major international and regional issues of common concern.

Jia said the Chinese side will continue to play a constructive role in the proper settlement of the Darfur issue through diplomatic efforts and the promotion of the peace process in Somalia.

Kibaki appreciated China's positive role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

After the meeting, Jia and Kibaki attended a signing ceremony for five bilateral cooperation documents including a document on bilateral economic and technical cooperation.

Kenya is the last leg of Jia's visit to four African countries, which has already taken him to Tunisia, Ghana and Zimbabwe.

Editor: Wing