Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou on Tuesday. Calling China and Niger good friends, partners and brothers, Xi hailed the constantly strengthening political mutual trust and fruitful pragmatic cooperation between the two countries. Xi said China stands ready to work with Niger to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to boost strategic cooperation and benefit the two peoples.
He called on the two countries to understand, trust and support each other on issues of core interests and major concern, and continue their exchanges in governance and development experience. China and Niger should deepen synergy within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC, Xi said, stressing the importance of carrying out key projects in infrastructure, people’s livelihood, energy and agriculture. He said China will continue to support Niger in fighting terrorism for regional peace and stability, and promote the UN support for the Group of Five Sahel joint force.
Calling for more communication and collaboration on major international affairs, Xi promised China will help Niger improve people’s livelihood in such field as medical care. He also voiced his hope that China and Niger would expand exchanges in culture, youth, women and think tanks, so as to enhance the two peoples’ mutual understanding.