The national memorial service for the former president of South Africa Nelson Mandela was held at FNB Stadium of Johannesburg, South Africa, on December 10 (LI JIANGUO)

About 100,000 people from across the country and more than 90 world leaders and dignitaries gathered in heavy rain for the memorial service of former South African president Nelson Mandela, at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, on December 10.

To a background of crowds singing and dancing in joyous celebration of their departed leader, as is the African way, UN Sectary General Ban Ki-moon, AU Commission Chair Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and U.S. President Barack Obama were among those who spoke about the life and legacy of the late South African icon.

In his speech, Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao, the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, expressed deep condolences and paid high tribute to Mandela, saying China will always cherish Mandela's contribution to China-South Africa relations and that he was the pride of the African people.

"For all his life, he had strived for the liberation of African nations, championed the dignity of the African people and endeavored to advance the unity of all African countries and move forward Africa's cooperation with the world," said Li.

Li referred to Mandela as one of the founding fathers of China-South Africa relations. "Mr. Mandela had committed himself to China-South Africa friendship and China-Africa cooperation with great passion. The Chinese people will always cherish the memory of his significant contribution to China-South Africa friendship and China-Africa relations," he said.

Li said Mandela was a household name in China and the loss of an old friend was a time of great sadness, but China was heartened to see that the cause Mandela had started would be carried forward.

He also said under the leadership of President Zuma and the South African government, South African people will continue to make big strides forward along the path of national rejuvenation and development.

"China stands ready to work with South Africa to deepen China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership, bring benefits to the two countries and two peoples, and make positive contribution to the noble cause of world peace and development," said Li.

Mandela's body will lie in state to be viewed at the Union Buildings in Pretoria for three days from December 11, and thereafter be transported to his family home in Qunu in Eastern Cape on December 14. The burial ceremony will be held in December 15.

(Reporting from South Africa)