China's top legislator visits 5 African countries

China's top legislator Wu Bangguo has begun a two-week goodwill visit to five African nations, namely Algeria, Gabon, Ethiopia, Madagascar and Seychelles.

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, has been invited by leaders of parliament in the five countries.

Cao Weizhou, vice secretary-general of China's top legislature, says the new diplomatic move will substantially enhance bilateral relations.

"Parliaments are the top legislature in every country, which directly reflect the will of the public. To enhance the exchange and cooperation is conducive to deepening understanding and trust. China's NPC is willing to conduct further exchanges at various levels with the parliaments in the five African nations."

Cao Weizhou adds that the visit of the Chinese top legislator to Africa echoes the spirit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in Beijing in 2006. The forum is committed to building a new strategic partnership between the two sides.

The official adds that a series of economic cooperation documents will be endorsed on the sidelines of the visit. And these documents are expected to help improve the development of infrastructure, personnel training and other aspects in the African continent.

Wu Bangguo will also pay a visit to the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa during his visit to the country.