China puts ties with ‘brother’ Mozambique on highest footing in quest for stronger links in Africa
Comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to be a model for relations between Beijing and other countries in Africa
China will raise ties with Mozambique to the highest level in Beijing’s diplomatic system as it tries to expand political, energy and economic cooperation in Africa.
In his meeting with Mozambican President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi on Wednesday, President Xi Jinping said ties between the two countries would be raised to a “comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership”.
Xi also described Mozambique as “a good brother”, with the two countries having fought “shoulder to shoulder against imperialism and colonialism”.
“Our two countries are aligned in development concepts ... as well as a wide range of common interests,” Xi said, adding the ties are expected to be model in Sino-Africa relationships. Nyusi, who was on his first state visit to China, said he appreciated China’s support in the 1960s when his country was fighting for independence.
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After the talks between the two leaders, officials from China and Mozambique signed a series of cooperation agreements, ranging from culture and food aid to production capacity.
Deputy Foreign Minister Zhang Ming said elevating diplomatic ties would enable the two countries to increase mutual trust, and support each other on core interests and major issues.