Beijing - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday accepted an invitation from Angolan Head of State João Lourenço to make an official visit to Angola, with the date to be agreed through the appropriate diplomatic channels.
Xi Jinping recalled that in 2010, as Vice-President of the People's Republic of China, he visited Angola and that he has "intense memories" from that trip, especially the "effusive welcome" in Luanda.
"I remember, 14 years ago, seeing several buildings under construction in Luanda, many projects underway. I am honored to accept your invitation," said the Chinese leader.
João Lourenço also accepted an invitation by President Xi Jinping to take part in the next edition of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum (FOCAC) scheduled for September this year in Beijing.
Angola/China relations
Relations between Angola and China date back to 1983 and reached their highest point in 2000 when the Asian giant began lending to the country to rebuild infrastructure destroyed by the war and to boost the national economy.
Since 2007, Angola has been China's biggest trading partner in Africa, with a turnover totaling 24.8 billion US dollars in 2010 alone.
In Angola, China operates in the most varied areas of the country's economic and social life, with a strong presence in staff training, such as the construction and equipping of the Integrated Technological Training Centre (CINFOTEC) and the Venâncio de Moura Diplomatic Academy and scholarships for young Angolans. FMA/ADR/DAN/AMP
