The relationship between China and Mozambique has been elevated to that of a comprehensive strategic partnership, following a meeting on Wednesday between the nations’ presidents said Chinese state-run news agency Xinhua.

China’s President, Xi Jinping, met with his Mozambican counterpart, Filipe Nyusi, in Beijing. Mr Nyusi on Monday started a six-day visit to China.

Mr Xi was quoted saying in the meeting the two nations were “good brothers sharing weal and woe, good friends supporting each other and good partners pursuing common development”.

“The two sides should continue to plan and advance bilateral ties from a strategic and long-term perspective, and understand and support each other on issues involving our core interests and major concerns,” he said.

He pledged to strengthen industrial co-operation with Mozambique to help the African nation develop its economy through its rich natural and human resources, as well as boosting its maritime economy, fisheries and port development. The Chinese Government would support Chinese firms to help them invest in natural gas exploration, manufacturing, agriculture and infrastructure in Mozambique.

Mr Nyusi said he was grateful for China’s support. He added – as quoted by Xinhua – his country was willing to enhance ties with China and welcome more Chinese investment.

According to Xinhua, the two leaders also witnessed the signing of several co-operation deals in fields including economics and energy.