Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that stronger China-Africa cooperation under the current international situation is conducive to the unity among developing countries.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Xi noted that the visit by Hassan to China in November last year is a highlight in China-Tanzania ties and the agreements reached by the two sides are being implemented effectively. He said that the two countries' cooperation has been at the forefront of the China-Africa cooperation, with the Chinese-built Tanzania-Zambia Railway staying in the memory of the people of both countries. 

Next year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Xi said that China will take the opportunity to work with Tanzania to confirm each other's support in their core interests and major concerns, as well as deepen strategic cooperation. Under the current circumstances, strengthening China-Africa cooperation helps developing countries safeguard their unity and their legitimate right to development, he said.

Hassan, for her part, said that she is happy that the ties with China have been upgraded to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. The Tanzanian leader noted that Tanzania and China have maintained close high-level exchanges and the cooperative projects are well underway. Tanzania speaks highly of China's support and help to developing countries, Hassan said, adding that many developing countries, including Tanzania, have benefited from the Belt and Road and other initiatives proposed by President Xi. 

Hassan said that Tanzania expects to celebrate with China the 60th anniversary of the two countries' ties and further elevate the relationship.

(With input from Xinhua)