The Chinese government has encouraged developed nations to join in its initiatives to advance development in Africa. “While China engages in economic, trade and cultural cooperation with Africa, we urge any other countries, especially developed countries, to give a hand to Africa so that Africa can achieve development,” said Foreign Ministry Spokesman Liu Jianchao. “If other countries in the world want to collaborate in helping Africa, this is a good thing, but no side can exclude the other,” he added. The comments were made in response to an appeal by Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi for greater efforts from Europe and Japan in pooling foreign aid spending for Africa, in consideration of the growing clout of China in the region. (Source: China hopes developed nations become more involved in aid to Africa/Xinhua)
