Gabonese President El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba gives a speech at the High-level Dialogue and the Second Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Nov. 4, 2006. (Xinhua Photo)  Photo Gallery >>>

The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has become an important platform for China and Africa to formulate new strategies for development, and carry out all round coordination and dialogues, said Gabonese President El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba here Saturday afternoon.

The president made the remarks when addressing the High-level Dialogue and the Second Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs.

He said he believes China and African countries will find out new measures at the FOCAC Beijing Summit to further cement cooperation so as to upgrade their strategic partnership to a higher level.

Central Africa, a peaceful land with 130 million population, has gradually walked out of various difficulties and created a favorable environment for international trade and foreign investment, the president said.

He said central African countries hope that diversified partnerships with other nations will help boost regional economy.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and 27 presidents and six prime ministers from Africa attended the opening ceremony of the conference.

Wen delivered a speech at the conference. Prior to the opening ceremony, Wen held a welcoming ceremony in honor of the African leaders and other guests who participated in the conference.