The visit paid by China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, to Mozambique this week could help further the relationship between China and Mozambique, said China’s Ambassador to the African nation, Su Jian.

Mr Su said in a statement – posted on the embassy website this week – it was the first time in 15 years that a Chinese foreign affairs minister had led a delegation visiting Mozambique.

“The visit will further cement the traditional friendship and co-operation between the two nations… as well as facilitate bilateral ties entering a new stage,” he said.

The economies of China and Mozambique were “complementary”, he added. The African nation had abundant natural resources and labour, while China had experience in capital and techniques, he added.

Mr Wang has been on an official tour to four African nations since last week. On Tuesday he met with Mozambique’s President, Filipe Nyusi, and the country’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Oldemiro Baloi, in Maputo, the capital.