Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao meets with Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete in Beijing on April 13, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

   BEIJING, April 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete on Sunday pledged to make concerted effort to promote the traditional friendship and practical cooperation between the two countries.

    China and Tanzania respected and supported each other since establishment of diplomatic ties, and China treats Tanzania as itsall-weather cooperative partner, said Wen.

    The Chinese government will continue to provide aid for Tanzania's economic development within its capacity, and hopes to cooperate with Tanzania in extending cooperation and enhance friendly partnership.

    Noting China's precious support and assistance for Tanzania over the past years, Kikwete said the Tanzanian people value the friendship with the Chinese people, adding that Tanzanian are glad to hold the torch relay.

    Kikwete kicked off his visit to China on April 11 in Sanya, where he met with Chinese President Hu Jintao and exchanged views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

    According to official statistics, the trade volume between the two countries in 2007 reached 794 million U.S. dollars, up 48.2 percent over the previous year.

    Kikwete was elected rotating Chairman of the African Union in January. He visited China in 2006 to attend the Beijing Summit of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.

    Source:Xinhua