A senior Chinese official on Friday called for enhanced press exchange between Chinese and African counterparts.

Liu Yunshan (C, front), head of the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, meets with African press officials and media heads who are here for an information seminar at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 10, 2008.

Liu Yunshan, head of the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of Communist Party of China (CPC), made the remarks when meeting with the African press officials and media heads who were here for an information seminar.

Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said to cement and develop friendly ties with African countries is a key component of China's independent foreign policy of peace and a long-term strategy.

The further cooperation of China and Africa in the press sector could help to boost bilateral ties with respective African countries, Liu said.

"Our cooperation will also help safeguard the common interests of the developing countries amid international public voice and let the world know each of our countries in a more objective and comprehensive way."

In response, Adron Aledji Albada, head of the African delegation, said each participant was greatly impressed by the development of China and the hospitality of the Chinese people.

She added they hoped to have an in-depth exchange of views with Chinese counterparts.

The fifth seminar held by the Information Office of China's State Council for African press officials and media heads launched on Wednesday, drawing 30 officials from 17 African countries.

In the upcoming two weeks, the African press officials and media heads will attend lectures and discuss with Chinese press officials, journalists and experts.

The seminar, founded in August of 2004, aims at strengthening China-Africa press cooperation and cementing friendship.

Liu Yunshan (C, front), head of the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, poses with African press officials and media heads who are here for an information seminar at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 10, 2008.

(Xinhua News Agency October 11, 2008)