China and Morocco should strengthen coordination and communication in international and regional issues, Chinese President Xi Jinping said during a meeting with Moroccan Prime Minister Saad Eddine El Othmani at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. 

The two countries have a long history. As early as the 14th century, a famous Moroccan traveler came to China, connecting China with Africa and the Arab world. 

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-Morocco diplomatic relations. 

China is willing to develop the strategic partnership, Xi said, stressing Beijing's support towards Morocco's efforts in maintaining stability and developing its economy. 

El Othmani said that African nations consider China as an important country and a positive force in the international arena.

President Xi's keynote speech at the 2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is significant and pragmatic, the prime minister noted, adding that Africa's development and Africa-China cooperation will be vigorously promoted. 

El Othmani thanked China for its long-term help and support, and reiterated Morocco's adherence to the one-China policy.