A cultural delegation led by Chinese Vice Culture Minister Chang Keren arrived in Dakar on Saturday evening for a three-day visit to add the momentum for the China-Africa friendship and cooperation.

Upon their arrival, Chang and his entourage were warmly welcomed by Senegalese Culture Minister Mame Birame Diouf and other officials.

Chang told his Senegalese hosts that he was very happy to visit the West African country for the first time as the head of a cultural delegation sent by the Chinese government.

He expressed confidence that the visit will intensify cultural exchanges and deepen understanding between the two peoples.

The Chinese delegation will sign a cultural cooperation agreement with Senegalese authorities in a bid to boost bilateral exchanges in culture and arts, said She Mingyuan, the Chinese Embassy cultural counselor in Dakar on Thursday.

Chinese Ambassador to Senegal Lu Shaye said the Chinese-funded national grand theater will soon go into operation in the capital Dakar.

China has taken steps to enhance cooperation with African countries since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in November 2006.

(Xinhua News December 10, 2007)