On August 21, 2009, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks with visiting Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Moctar Ouane.

Yang said China-Mali friendship goes back to ancient times. "Since the establishment of diplomatic ties nearly 50 years ago, the two countries have been supportive of each other in politics and achieved fruitful outcomes in such areas as trade, culture and education," said Yang. China appreciated Mali for its adherence to the one-China policy, and its consistent support to China's positions on issues related to Taiwan, Tibet and Xinjiang, said Yang. China is ready to join hands with Mali to maintain high-level exchanges, expand pragmatic cooperation, increase humanities contacts and enhance multilateral cooperation, so as to "pour vigor into bilateral traditional relationship".

Ouane said Mali highly values friendly relations with China and will work with China to further enhance political dialogue, deepen cooperation in all areas and push forward bilateral ties.

Both sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.