Vice President Zeng Qinghong said in Beijing on Monday that China will make joint efforts with Ethiopia to further bilateral cooperation and contribute to the Sino-African friendship.

China and Ethiopia share traditional friendship and their relations have witnessed sound progress under the five principles of peaceful co-existence since the two countries established diplomatic ties 35 year ago, Zeng said while meeting with visiting Ethiopian Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin.

The two countries have enhanced political mutual trust, expanded economic cooperation since the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front took power, Zeng said.

He said that the exchange of visits by the two prime ministers have pushed the bilateral ties onto a track of sustainable, fast and comprehensive development.

He expressed appreciation for Ethiopia's adherence to the one-China policy and support for China's unification cause.

On Sino-African relations, Zeng said that the China-Africa Cooperation Forum has played an important role in promoting dialogue and cooperation between China and the African countries.

"As a co-chair of the forum, China will enhance coordination and cooperation with Ethiopia to contribute more to the Sino-African friendship," he said.

Seyoum Mesfin said that Ethiopia is satisfied with the fast growing cooperation with China.

Ethiopia appreciates China's long-term support and help in various fields and promises to keep the one-China policy.

Seyoum Mesfin appealed for joint efforts to further cooperation in mining, agriculture, hydro-power generation, infrastructure construction and the financial sectors, in a bid to promote the development of the China-Ethiopia partnership.

He said the African nations and peoples appreciated China's firm support to Africa's fight against colonialism as well as its ongoing efforts in eliminating poverty and underdevelopment.

He also held talks with Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing earlier on Monday. The two foreign ministers exchanged views on the China-Africa Cooperation Forum and issues of common concern.

(Xinhua News Agency November 29, 2005)