State-run China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) announced on Wednesday it had signed a co-operation agreement with Mozambique’s state-controlled oil firm Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos (ENH).

CNPC said in a statement both sides would “further promote practical co-operation in fields of oil and natural gas and explore collaboration in other areas”.

The two parties would work on collaboration in exploration, production, processing and sale of gas and oil, while CNPC would actively participate in projects in Mozambique and provide personnel training for the African nation, the statement said.

It was one of several co-operation deals witnessed on Wednesday by China’s President, Xi Jinping, and his Mozambican counterpart, Filipe Nyusi, who started a six-day visit to China on Monday.

Following one meeting between the leaders, the nations had decided to elevate their relationship to what was termed a comprehensive strategic partnership, reported Chinese state-run news agency Xinhua.

Mr Xi said China would strengthen industrial co-operation with Mozambique to help the African nation develop its economy through its rich natural and human resources. China would also help boost Mozambique’s maritime economy, fisheries and port development.

Mr Nyusi also met on Thursday with Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, who said China would support Chinese enterprises to participate in infrastructure projects and co-operation in energy and resources in Mozambique, Xinhua reported.