Gambian economic growth backed

President Xi Jinping called on Friday for China and Gambia to continue to firmly support each other on issues involving one another's core interests and major concerns, and consolidate friendship and mutual trust to promote the steady and sustained progress in bilateral ties.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Gambian President Adama Barrow in Beijing. During the talks, the two leaders announced the elevation of their ties to a strategic partnership.

Xi said he was glad that the projects with Chinese assistance and cooperation have improved the lives of the Gambian people. He added that this year's FOCAC Summit has rolled out a series of new measures on cooperation.

China is willing to work together with Gambia to use the summit's outcomes as an opportunity to push for more achievements in bilateral cooperation, assist the African country's economic growth and improve people's well-being, Xi said.

Barrow said his country believes that China represents hope and future potential, and that only by deepening cooperation with China can Gambia achieve national development. He added that Gambia plans to deepen cooperation with China in areas including trade and the economy as well as people-to-people exchange.