Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao is scheduled to visit the Republic of Congo on Monday, as part of his seven-nation Africa tour.

 

The visit will further promote the friendly cooperation enjoyed between the two countries, said Wo Ruidi, China's ambassador to the Republic of Congo.

 

Relations between China and the Republic of Congo have witnessed favorable developments since the countries established diplomatic ties on February 22, 1964.

 

In the 1960s, the Republic of Congo had distinguished itself as a firm supporter for China's bid to resume a seat in the United Nations.

 

Over the past years, every government of the Republic of Congo have unswervingly adhered to the "one China" policy and pursued friendly policies toward China.

 

In 2005, the Foreign Ministry of the Republic of Congo issued a statement, expressing support for China's Anti-Secession Law on Taiwan.

 

Political interaction between the two countries has maintained a sound momentum, with leaders exchanging visits in varied forms.

 

President of the Republic of Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso, who has visited China many times, thanked China in his 2003 state of the union speech for giving unselfish help to his country.

 

Trade and cooperation between the two countries have been expanding rapidly.

 

Since 1965, China has helped the Republic of Congo with 45 projects, including the construction of a stadium, broadcasting station, assembly building, textile mill, hospital and hydropower station.

 

In 2001, the Chinese government wrote off the majority of the Republic of Congo's debt to China.

 

According to statistics from Chinese customs, trade between China and the Republic of Congo rocketed to US$2.42 billion in 2005, from US$342 million in 2000.

 

Within the framework of the China-Africa cooperation forum, China helped train 107 personnel for the Republic of Congo in 2004 and 2005. Since 1975, China has received 294 students from the Republic of Congo.

 

China has sent medical teams to the African country every two years since 1966, in an initiative that has involved 670 Chinese medical staff.

 

The Chinese government also regularly donates medical equipment to Brazzaville.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 18, 2006)