Tanzania and China sign four economic agreements

2009-02-15 12:13:12
By Joyce Kisaka

Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in Dar es Salaam last night, for a four-day official visit, leading a 140-strong delegation.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Bernard Membe, told journalists in the city yesterday that the visit is aimed at consolidating relations between two countries, which date back to 1961, when Tanzania attained independence.

He said the visiting Chinese leader and his host, President Jakaya Kikwete, are scheduled to sign four economic agreements today, and also officiate at the inauguration of the new stadium built partly through Chinese government assistance.

Elaborating on the agreements, Minister Member cited areas to be covered as bilateral relations on economic issues between the two governments; bilateral relations on economic issues between the Chinese government and the Zanzibar government; initiation of a Youth Volunteer Programme between Tanzania and China; and bilateral relations between China`s Exim Bank and the Tanzania government.

The focus of the bank will be to provide credit for various local projects. The Minister said the Tanzania-Zambia Railway line (Tazara) will be one of the subjects of discussion between the two sides, partly as a follow-up to a pledge for assistance to the firm, made during President Kikwete`s visit to China last year.

Membe said Tanzania has 400 opportunities for exporting its products to China.

He explained that Tanzanian exports to China represent only 35 percent whereas it is 95 percent the other way round.

The Minister said later today, President Hu will meet Zanzibar President Amani Abeid Karume and tour the China cemetery at Majohe Gongolamboto. In the evening, he will attend a banquet hosted by President Kikwete in Dar es Salaam.

Tomorrow`s itinerary for the guest will include delivery of a speech on China`s co-operation with Africa, at the Diamond Jubilee Hall.