On September 23, 2008, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai Jun met in the Foreign Ministry with President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission Mohamed Ibn Chambas, who is here for China-ECOWAS economic and trade forum.

Zhai said ECOWAS is an important regional organization in Africa and China has kept long-term sound cooperative relations with most of its members with increasing exchanges in political, economic and other fields. China will continue to work with a large majority of African countries and regions including ECOWAS to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) so as to push for in-depth development of China-Africa relations.

Chambas said China is a sincere friend of Africa. Over the years China has made important contributions by actively supporting Africa, especially the efforts of the West African countries to safeguard regional security and promote economic growth. ECOWAS Commission will continue to adhere to the one-China policy and is ready to work with China to lift bilateral friendly cooperation to a new level. Chambas also congratulated China on its successful hosting of the spectacular Olympics and Paralympics.