Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Niger Prime Minister Hama Amadou in the Great Hall of the People Friday.

Hu said that Sino-Niger relations have developed rapidly since the two countries restored diplomatic ties in 1996. Niger President Mamadou Tandja has particularly attached importance to developing relations with China since he came into power, thus strengthening the traditional friendship of the two countries, Hu said.

Hu expressed appreciation for the adherence of the Niger government to the "one-China" policy, and its support on the Taiwan and human rights issues, saying that China is ready to further the bilateral ties in line with the principles of mutual trust and sincere cooperation.

Hu praised the Niger government for its contribution to safeguarding national unity and regional peace and stability, and promoting the country's economy and social stability under the leadership of President Tandja.

On the situation in Africa, Hu said the Second Summit of the African Union held successfully last month is a milestone for Africa's development. China will continue to support the African Union and make efforts to build up a long-term and stable partnership of equality and mutual benefit.

Hama delivered Hu a letter from President Tandja, expressing his wishes to develop relations between Niger and China.

Hama said that Niger values the relations with China, and will adhere to the "one-China" policy.

He said that China's achievements are encouraging Niger, which has always supported China's developments.

He also expressed his hope that China's development will help build a just and reasonable international political and economic order.

(Xinhua News Agency August 9, 2003)