BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday held talks with President of the Republic of Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso, who is in Beijing for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and a state visit.

Xi congratulated the Republic of Congo on becoming the African co-chair of FOCAC.

The summit's outcomes will benefit all African countries that have diplomatic ties with China and lift China-Africa cooperation to new heights, Xi said, adding that the outcomes are of great significance for guiding the development of China-Africa ties and achieving modernization for both sides.

China will work with the Republic of Congo to better play their leading role as FOCAC co-chairs and to show the firm resolve of China and Africa to jointly build an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era, he said.

Noting that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Xi said both sides should strengthen and develop their traditional friendship to set an example for China-Africa relations.

He stressed that China appreciates the Republic of Congo's firm and unequivocal support on issues related to China's core interests and major concerns.