African Leaders' Remarks on Sino-African Relations

Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of Tanzania

"Tanzania will continue to firmly back China on major issues concerning national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Tanzania commits itself to economic development and hopes to strengthen cooperation with China, both bilaterally and under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, in such areas as agriculture, energy and resources development, infrastructure, poverty alleviation and human resources. Tanzania welcomes China's involvement in the construction of Tanzanian special economic zone."

Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa

"The People's Republic of China has achieved much success in a short time and it is incumbent on us to learn from that which you have achieved. We view China's success as a source of hope and inspiration as we engage with the task of finding our own solutions for bringing about a better future. The rise of China has lessons for us all as we seek to emulate your example."

Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of the Republic of the Congo

 "The Republic of the Congo appreciates China's assistance, and hopes to enhance cooperation with China in road and railway construction and other areas…The so-called 'China neo-colonialism' of Africa is ill-disposed. The African people will not be misled by such allegations as they fully understand what colonialism is through their own history."