Li, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was seen off by Kandy Nehova, chairman of the Namibian National Council, and Chinese Ambassador Chen Laiyuan at the airport.

At the invitation of Nehova, Li arrived here on Feb. 12 and met with Namibian President Sam Nujoma, Prime Minister Theo-Ben Gurirab and Speaker Moses Tjitendero.

The two sides held talks on bilateral relations and regional and international issues of common concern. They also explored new ways of friendly cooperation in various fields.

They held that Li's visit is a successful one since the two sides promoted mutual understanding, broadened consensus, deepened friendship and expanded cooperation.

During his talks with the Namibian leaders, Li expressed his appreciation to the Namibian government for its support to China on the key issues of one China and human rights.

He spoke highly of economic achievements in the southwestern African country and its foreign policy.

Reviewing the bilateral relations since the establishment of the diplomatic ties between the two nations 12 years ago, Li said China and Namibia enjoy a long history of close friendship.

The past 12 years have witnessed smooth development of the bilateral relations and increasing exchanges and cooperation in various fields between the two countries, he said.

On development, he said both China and Namibia belong to developing countries, adding development is a worldwide topic and main task for developing countries and many problems can not be solved without development in developing countries.

"The same conditions and common tasks decide that there are many common languages and common interests among developing countries. Therefore, developing countries should strengthen unity and seek equal status in the international arena," he said.

There is no development in the world if there is no development in developing countries, Li said, stressing that developing countries will make an important contribution to the world if they obtain development.

The Namibian leaders expressed their thanks to Li both for the comprehensive support by the Chinese people to the Namibian people in their struggle for national liberation and independence and for Chinese economic assistance after independence.

Nujoma assured that Namibia would adhere to the principle that there is only one China and Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, saying: "We are looking forward to the reunification of China at an early date."

The Namibian leaders also agreed with the Chinese leader's statement on development, stressing that developing countries must join hands and support each other in their efforts to develop economy and maintain national stability.

(Xinhua News Agency February 17, 2003)