China-Senegal Ties: Chinese, Senegalese presidents pledge to create better future
Updated 19:55, 25-Jul-2018
[]
01:53
We begin in Senegal, where Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a state visit. In the capital Dakar, he held talks with President Macky Sall. The two leaders have vowed to create a better future, and witnessed the signing of multiple cooperation documents. Wang Tongxuan has more.
Touching down in West African soil for the first time as Chinese president, Senegal is Xi Jinping's first stop. Considered as an economic hub in the region, the West African country has recorded impressive economic growth in recent years. It relies on agriculture for much of its revenue, but it's been diversifying. It's also been trying to battle poverty and improve the quality of life for its citizens and President Macky Sall hopes to learn from China in that area.
China is now Senegal's second largest trading partner and biggest source of investment. Both countries have strong partnerships in many areas -- such as agriculture, trade and infrastructure, cementing a mutual trust.
In 2016, the two countries elevated ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and reached many consensuses on expanding bilateral cooperation.
President Xi welcomed Senegal as the first West African country to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative. He said China is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with Senegal in major international and regional affairs, such as security in Africa, UN affairs and climate change.
While in Senegal, President Xi was awarded the "Grand Cross of the National Order of the Lion" for his "distinguished services". WTX,CGTN.