On June 29, 2008, the Chinese government's special envoy and Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai Jun, who is in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, for the 11th AU Summit, met with African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Jean Ping.

For his part, Zhai Jun conveyed a congratulation letter from Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to the AU summit and regards from State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi to Ping. The Chinese official hailed the AU's achievement since its establishment in 2002 and its important role on regional affairs, stressing China's commitment to support African countries' efforts for unity, cooperation and development.

Zhai expressed sincere thanks to AU commission on behalf of the Chinese government and people for its deep condolences to China over the deadly earthquake in southwest China's Sichuan province. In order to show support to AU and the African integration process, the Chinese government decided to provide 300,000 U.S. dollars and 500,000 dollars in donation to the AU to support the pan-African body's institution building and efforts to solve Sudan's Darfur problem respectively.

Ping hailed the friendly cooperative relations between China and AU as well as African countries and expressed his appreciation to the Chinese government's assistance. He reiterated the AU's adherence to the one-China policy and support for China's hosting of 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. The AU would like to boost consultation and cooperation with China on the regional and international affairs, Ping noted.

During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on the situation in Africa and other issues of common concern.