Chinese vice premier meets South Sudanese president

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang said in Beijing Wednesday that China will as always support the South Sudanese government in efforts to develop its economy, improve people's livelihoods and maintain stability.

The remarks were made as Li met with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit in Beijing.

Li said China is ready to work with South Sudan so that the two countries continue to support each other on issues relating to their core interests and major concerns so as to further advance China-South Sudan friendship and cooperation.

Li said China appreciates South Sudan's adherence to the one-China policy. He also expressed wishes that the people of South Sudan will overcome difficulties and make fresh achievements in building a new country.

Cooperation between China and South Sudan comprises an important foundation for bilateral relations, Li said. Noting that the two economies are highly complementary to each other, he said the two sides should seize opportunities to tap into the great potential and create a new situation of practical cooperation.

Li urged the two sides to implement projects of Chinese aid so as to benefit the South Sudanese people as soon as possible.

He said China encourages more competent Chinese companies to invest in South Sudan, expressing hope the South Sudanese government will create a better investment environment and protect the security of employees of Chinese companies and their properties.

Li also called for the South Sudanese side to properly handle its oil cooperation with China and guarantee the stability and continuity of the cooperation.

The two sides will continue to expand cooperation on agriculture, infrastructure, culture, education and public health, Li promised.

Kiir thanked China for its assistance. He said South Sudan highly values the friendship with China, and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation and provide convenience for Chinese companies investing in his country.

Kiir is paying a state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Hu Jintao. The heads of state held talks on Tuesday and witnessed the signing of a number of document on bilateral cooperation.

Kiir also met with top legislator Wu Bangguo in Beijing on Wednesday afternoon.