China and Togo yesterday signed co-operation agreements focusing on agriculture, infrastructure and telecommunications after talks between the top leaders of the two countries in Beijing.

President Hu Jintao said the two countries' friendly ties have been strengthened since they forged diplomatic ties and China appreciates Togo's firm support to China on the Taiwan question.

He said China is ready to work with Togo to push forward bilateral ties in the political, economical and cultural spheres.

Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe echoed Hu's remarks and expressed his appreciation for the assistance that the Chinese Government and people have offered towards Togo's economic and social development.

He said he believed the first summit meeting of the Forum of China-Africa Co-operation, which is scheduled to be held in Beijing this autumn, would help China and African countries have a better understanding of each other.

"Togo is willing to take this opportunity to join hands with China to further promote Africa-China ties," Faure said.

Faure arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a week-long state visit, his first trip to China since assuming the presidency in May 2005.

He will hold talks with top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo and Premier Wen Jiabao today before leaving for Northwest China's Shaanxi Province. His last stop in China will be the country's economic powerhouse Shanghai.

Source: China Daily