China, Ghana pledge to lift bilateral ties to a new high

BEIJING, Sept. 20 (Xinhua) -- China and Ghana agreed Monday to lift their friendly cooperative ties to a new high, as the two nations mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year. Chinese President Hu Jintao and the visiting Ghanian President, John Evans Atta Mills, reached the agreement during their talks in Beijing.

Hu spoke highly of the development of China-Ghana relations, saying China is ready to work with Ghana to increase exchange at various levels, including those between ruling parties.

He also said he hopes the two nations will support each other in international and regional affairs.

China will encourage Chinese companies to take part in the development of agriculture, resources, energy, electricity, communications and infrastructure in Ghana, Hu added.

Hu also said China will continue to direct its companies in Ghana to better serve the local people.

Hu also pledged to increase cultural exchanges with Ghana while also helping the African country develop its education, health, and personnel training systems.

Echoing Hu, Mills expressed satisfaction about the smooth development of Ghana-China ties.

He thanked China for its selfless assistance helping Ghana progress economically and socially.

Ghana will work to attract foreign investment, Mills said, adding that Ghana will protect the interests of investors.

After their talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing of a series of cooperative documents.

The Ghanian president is in China for a six-day state visit.