Angola's 27-year civil war has been over for several years now and the country is focusing on reconstruction - in particular social housing - and with the help of Chinese companies.

On February 20, the Stone Laying Ceremony of the Real Estate Development Project was held in Luanda, the capital of Angola. The Project is being contracted by Chinese companies and is the largest of its kind in the country.

In attendance were officials from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, local Angolan officials, and representatives from the builders and contracting companies from both countries. The Real Estate Development Project will build 100,000 houses in 14 provinces of Angola. The Chinese construction company is responsible for the design, procurement and construction of housing and infrastructure.

Orlando Veloso, representative of Angolan partner, said, "I see that's the testimony of this continuation of engagement between both parts, Angola and China."

Angola's 27 year civil war came to an end in 2002. But the infrastructure was seriously damaged or destroyed across the country. Millions were left homeless. In recent years, all the provinces spare no effort to develop construction projects for new apartments to relieve the tension of housing and maintain the stability of society. Playing a vital role in the reconstruction, the Chinese construction companies have been promoting active cooperation with Angola.

The Real Estate Development Project not only solves the problem of housing for the Angolan people, but also improves the local employment.

Liu Guigen, Chinese company representative, said, "In the project of K.K, we almost have 6000 Angolan workers. In the project of RED, it will be more than this, approaching 10000 Angolan workers."

Thousands of Angolan workers will be working on the project, and to give them an extra boost, they will be given technical training regularly.

(CNTV.cn February 23, 2012)