To find friendships, one has to offer friendship. This has been the foundation of Sino-African relations for the past half century.

China has always adhered to the principles of mutual respect and equal treatment in developing its friendship with Africa, where 47 of the total 53 countries have forged diplomatic ties with China.

It is no surprise that African nations see China as a sincere and reliable friend, and are willing to lend their support on some crucial issues.

President Hu Jintao's ongoing visit to three African countries Morocco, Nigeria and Kenya comes as Beijing moves to push forward the Sino-African partnership.

During his speech to Nigeria's parliament yesterday, Hu elaborated on Sino-African relations and China's policy on Africa. He put forward a five-point proposal for developing China-Africa ties in the fields of politics, economy, culture, security and international affairs.

The speech sent a clear message that China stands ready to share its experiences in economic and social development with Africa.

In fact, China has stepped up its efforts to expand economic work with Africa since 2000, when the Sino-African Co-operation Forum was established as a platform to facilitate bilateral co-operation.

On January 12 this year, China issued its first "African Policy Paper," pledging to develop a new type of Sino-African strategic partnership that will lead to mutually beneficial economic co-operation.

Both China and Africa face the pressing need to pursue development. Therefore there is every reason for both sides to work together to achieve common development and prosperity, especially given the mutual political trust and complimentary economies.

On the one hand, China's booming economy will mean development opportunities for Africa. For instance, the Sino-African trade volume reached a record US$39.74 billion last year, with African countries achieving a trade surplus of US$2.38 billion.

Meanwhile, China's advanced technology, investment and inexpensive products can benefit African industry and African people.

On the other hand, Africa can translate its advantages to competitive strength by providing China with energy supplies and a market for its goods.

(China Daily 04/28/2006 page4)