On February 24, President Denis Sassou-Nguesso of the Republic of Congo met with visiting Chinese vice Premier Zeng Peiyan of the State Council. The two sides reached broad consensus on the development of bilateral friendly relations and the deepening of cooperation in various fields. Zeng also held talks with Congolese Prime Minister Isidore Mvouba. Relevant departments of the two governments also signed cooperation agreements.

Zeng conveyed the cordial greetings and best wishes from President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao to President Sassou. He said since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries bilateral friendly relations have been progressing in a sound and smooth manner with frequent political exchanges and productive cooperation in various fields. Zeng sang high praise for the stance of the government of Congo (Brazzaville) to adhere to the one-China policy as well as its close cooperation with China on such issues as human rights.

Zeng said China-Congo economic and trade cooperation has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. Bilateral trade has increased nearly eightfold over the past four years. Last year saw a 90 percent growth. China would like to work with Congo to continue to enhance inter-governmental economic and technical cooperation and explore new areas of cooperation so as to promote the continuous development of China-Congo friendly relations.

Zeng pointed out China-Africa Cooperation Forum has become a vital platform for China and Africa to enhance solidarity and cooperation and ultimately achieve common development. The attendance of the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of the Forum by H.E. President Sassou has demonstrated the top priority given by the government of Congo to China-Congo cooperation. China is actively carrying out the follow-up activities of the meeting.   

Sassou welcomed Zeng's good-will visit to Congo (Brazzaville) on the occasion of the 41st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. He said China has offered generous assistance to Congo (Brazzaville) over the years. The friendly feelings borne by the Chinese people have been deeply rooted in the hearts of the people of Congo (Brazzaville). China has scored tremendous achievements through reform and opening up, which may serve as a good reference for Congo (Brazzaville) to develop its economy. Sassou reiterated the stance to stick to the one-China principle. He hoped with joint efforts Congo-China cooperative relations in politics, economy, trade, culture and health can reach a new level

On the morning of the same day, Zeng held talks with Congolese Prime Minister Mvouba. Zeng said China and Congo enjoy strong economic complementarities. Bilateral economic and trade cooperation is facing with good opportunities and thriving robustness. He hoped the two countries can further expand trade exchanges and explore mutually beneficial cooperation in agriculture, energy, mineral resources, telecommunication, water supply and power supply. The Chinese government will continue to provide assistance to Congo within its utmost capacity and strengthen human resources training for the country.

Following the talks, relevant departments of the Chinese and Congolese governments signed cooperation agreements on economy, technology, energy and mineral resources.