Chinese Premier meets Ethiopian PM on stronger ties

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (L) holds a welcome ceremony for Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn before their talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 13, 2013. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday held talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn on boosting bilateral ties.

Li reviewed the smooth growth of China-Ethiopia relations since the two countries forged diplomatic relations in 1970, citing fruitful cooperation in various sectors.

Both China and Ethiopia are committed to developing their economies and improving people's livelihood, thus the two countries boast huge potential for cooperation, Li said.

Noting this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Ethiopia all-round cooperative partnership, Li said China would like to work with the African nation to bring bilateral cooperation to a new high.

The Chinese government supports firms with capabilities to work with Ethiopia in infrastructure, energy, resources, industrial parks, manufacturing and agriculture, Li said, urging the African country to continue to formulate preferential policies and improve the environment for investment.

The premier also called for stronger bilateral cooperation in culture, education, tourism and more communication on international and regional issues of importance, including reform of the United Nations Security Council, Somali and the Sudan-South Sudan issue.