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Chinese and South African heads of state pledge cooperation |
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April 26, 2000 PRETORIA, APR 25 (AP) - Chinese President Jiang Zemin and South African president Thabo Mbeki agreed Tuesday not to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries and to respect sovereignty.
During Zemin's visit, the first by a Chinese head of state since South Africa and the People's Republic of China established diplomatic relations on Jan. 1, 1998, a high-level binational commission was established to promote dialogue and cooperation between the two countries. The United States and South Africa have established a similar commission.
A military color guard marched in formation as Zemin, clad in a gray business suit, emerged from a black Mercedes in front of the Union Buildings. Mbeki and his wife Zanele greeted Zemin before the two heads of state went inside for their meetings.
Zemin, who arrived in South Africa on Monday, has said he was looking forward to exchanging ideas with South African leaders on how bilateral relations can be developed.
"The Chinese people and the South African people enjoy an age-old traditional friendship. The Chinese people have followed closely the development and growth of the new South Africa," Zemin said in the statement that was distributed on his arrival.
South Africa and China are expected to forge cooperation in merchant shipping, policing and culture.
Before departing on Thursday, Zemin is also to visit the Cape Town area, including Robben Island where Nelson Mandela spent part of his 27 years in prison for battling apartheid.
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