Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi's first foreign trip in 2009 would further step up China's cooperation with Africa as well as other countries.

Yang is to kick off official visits to four African countries from Jan. 13-17, namely Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi and South Africa. Later on he would visit Brazil and Portugal from Jan. 17 to 21.

During his visit to the four African countries, Yang will meet with the presidents and hold talks with foreign ministers of the four countries, to exchange views on bilateral ties and China-Africa cooperation, as well as international and regional issues of common concern. A series of documents to boost cooperation will be signed, said Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu.

She believed the visit could further cement China's friendly cooperation with Africa, and promote the development of China-Africa new strategic partnership.

As for Yang's visit to Brazil and Portugal, Jiang said this year marks the 35th anniversary of China-Brazil diplomatic ties and 30th anniversary of China-Portugal ties. China hopes to further step up exchanges and cooperation with the two countries through Yang's upcoming tour.

(Xinhua News Agency January 14, 2009)