China will continue to offer aid to African countries through the African Development Bank (ADB) and other institutions, said Premier Wen Jiabao during his meeting with ADB president Donald Kaberuka.

The ADB president came for the 2007 Annual Meetings of the Board of Governors of African Development Bank Group, to be held in Shanghai from May 16 to 17, at which Wen will deliver a speech.

The ADB helps improve people's lives and the economy of its member countries in Africa, particularly the least developed ones, with preferential loans and technological assistance, said Wen.

China has made various and constructive cooperation with the ADB since the country became an ADB member in 1985, Wen said.

Through the ADB, China shares poverty-relief experience with African counterparts and has provided US$314 million to 14 projects in eight African countries, Wen said.

Kaberuka appreciated China's preparation for this year's annual meetings and China's role in the poverty relief and debt cancellation.

The ADB supports and appreciates China's stance on the Darfur issue, he said.

Wen stressed that strengthening cooperation with African countries is an important part of China's diplomatic policy.

China maintains an open and transparent relationship with Africa, Wen said.

The Chinese government is willing to consolidate communication and cooperation with the international community on aiding Africa, Wen said.

It will be the first time the annual board meetings of the ADB are held in Asia, and the second time outside Africa. In 2001, the bank's annual board meetings were held in Spain.

It is another significant Africa-related event in China, following the Beijing Summit of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum held in November 2006.

Themed "African and Asia: Partners in Development", the meetings will focus on infrastructure development in Africa, regional integrity and poverty relief.

Founded in 1964, the ADB has 77 members from Africa, America, Europe and Asia.

(Xinhua News Agency May 16, 2007)