China, Gambia resume diplomatic ties

Wang stressed that the one-China policy is a political precondition and foundation for China to establish and develop diplomatic relations with other countries.

"We believe that the Gambian government will strictly adhere to the one-China policy and support China's undertakings for peaceful reunification," Wang said.

Wang said China stands ready to enhance mutual trust, expand cooperation and increase people-to-people exchanges with Gambia and will support the African country's efforts to play a bigger role in international and regional affairs.

MacDouall-Gaye said the resumption of diplomatic relations between Gambia and China is a milestone in bilateral relations.

The Gambian government and people will firmly adhere to the one-China policy, support the peaceful reunification of China and the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, she said.

Gambia is willing to be China's good friend and partner on the basis of mutual respect for each other's sovereignty, said MacDouall-Gaye.

She said Gambia highly appreciates China's long-term assistance and cooperation with Africa.

Gambia is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in such areas as agriculture, infrastructure, investment, manufacturing, people-to-people exchanges, processing, tourism and trade, she said.

Gambia will actively take part in cooperation within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), she added.

On Thursday afternoon, Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao also met with MacDouall-Gaye at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Li hoped the two sides will push forward friendly, win-win cooperation.

The two countries established formal diplomatic links in 1974, but China suspended relations in 1995 when Gambia resumed so-called "diplomatic" ties with Taiwan. Gambia severed ties with Taiwan in 2013.