SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS AFRICA CAN BENEFIT GREATLY FROM CHINA’S EXPERIENCES

IN SUSTAINING GROWTH, AS AFRICANS RENEW RESOLVE TO ADDRESS OWN CHALLENGES

The following statement was issued on 4 November by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General sends his warm congratulations to all participants in the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.  He particularly welcomes the announcement by the Government of the People’s Republic of China to double its aid to Africa by 2009.

The Secretary-General believes that, as Africans demonstrate renewed resolve to address the challenges confronting their continent, they can benefit greatly from the experience of their friends in China, who have had such success in sustaining growth and reducing poverty.

He notes that China and Africa have always spoken with one voice for common aims of development and economic progress.  This Summit is a historic opportunity for China and Africa to build on these shared ideals, and to advance South-South cooperation.

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For information media • not an official record