On the afternoon of August 8, 2003, President Hu Jintao met with Nigerien Prime Minister Hama Amadou at the Great Hall of the People. The two sides held friendly talks.

Hu said that Sino-Nigerien relations have developed rapidly since the two countries restored diplomatic ties in 1996. Nigerien President Mamadou Tandja has particularly attached importance to developing relations with China since he came into power, actively promoting China-Niger friendship and strengthening the traditional friendship of the two countries. Hu expressed appreciation for the adherence of the Niger government to the One China policy, and its solid support on the Taiwan and human rights issues, saying that China is ready to steadily further the bilateral ties in line with the principles of mutual trust and sincere cooperation.

Hu praised the contribution of the Niger government and people to safeguarding national unity, maintaining social stability, developing the national economy, and promoting regional peace and stability under the leadership of President Tandja. On the situation in Africa, Hu said the Second Summit of the African Union held successfully last month is a milestone for Africa's development. China will continue to support the African Union and make efforts to build up a long-term and stable new partnership of equality and mutual benefit.

Hama delivered a letter from President Tandja to Hu, in which Tandja expressed his strong wishes to develop relations between Niger and China.

Hama said that Niger-China relations are very good. Through bilateral cooperation, Niger is deeply impressed by China's sincere wish to support and help Niger. Hama said that Niger highly values the relations with China, will adhere to the One China policy, and work to develop friendly cooperation with China.

He said that China's achievements in economic and social causes are encouraging Niger, which has always supported China's development. He also expressed his hope that China's development will help build a just and reasonable new international political and economic order.