Visiting Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhai Jun and African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Jean Ping affirmed in Malabo on Saturday that the two sides will expand and deepen cooperation.

Zhai congratulated Ping on the upcoming 17th Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU, which would be held from June 30 to July 1 in Malabo, capital of Equatorial Guinea.

China highly appreciated the efforts made by the AU in promoting peace, stability and development in Africa, and would continue to support African countries to strengthen themselves through unity and solving regional problems independently, Zhai said.

China would also enhance collaboration and cooperation with the AU in regional and international affairs, and continue to deepen and advance bilateral relations, he said.

Ping affirmed that the AU values its relations with China, applauded China's constant fair position on international affairs, and acknowledged China's significant contributions to protecting the overall interests of developing countries.

He also pointed out the challenges facing Africa's peace progress and development, and expressed hope to further promote cooperation with China in all fields.

Moreover, the two sides exchanged views on international and regional affairs of common concern.

(Xinhua News Agency June 25, 2011)