Visiting Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade reiterated his country's commitment to the one-China policy in Beijing yesterday, saying his country is seeking to develop a "long-term and stable" relationship with China.

"I'm very proud that the two countries resumed diplomatic ties during my presidency," Wade said during talks with President Hu Jintao in the Great Hall of the People.

He said through an interpreter the resumption of diplomacy with China conforms to the "historic trend" and is also the common aspiration of the two peoples.

Senegal is working to develop its economy and hopes China can participate in the process, Wade said, adding his government "perseveringly pursues the one-China policy".

China broke off diplomatic relations with Senegal in 1996 when the latter officially recognised Taiwan, which is a part of Chinese territory.

Last October, Senegal announced it was cutting ties with Taiwan and resuming relations with Beijing, citing "an objective, in depth analysis of world geopolitics".

Wade arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for a week-long state visit to China at the invitation of President Hu Jintao.

Speaking to his Senegalese guest, Hu said relations between China and Senegal are recovering and developing quickly and co-operation in various fields is also expanding.

He proposed the two countries should deepen mutual political trust and seek common development on the basis of mutual benefit.

Hu said: "China is ready to help Senegal develop human resources and resume dispatching medical teams to the country."

Wade spoke highly of China's policy on Africa, saying his country will strengthen partnership with China under the framework of China-Africa Co-operation Forum to promote the growth of Sino-African relations.

The two leaders agreed to intensify collaborations and consultations in international and regional affairs to safeguard common interests.

They also agreed to work together in such fields as economy and trade, agriculture, transportation, infrastructure and science and technology.

After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of a series of co-operative documents and agreements including an agreement on economic and technical co-operation.

Source: China Daily