The Chinese government's special envoy to the 14th summit of the African Union (AU) has expressed China's willingness to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the AU.

The envoy, Deputy Foreign Minister Zhai Jun, told AU Commission Chairman Jean Ping at their meeting Saturday that China-AU relations have been experiencing sound development, with exchanges and dialogue in various fields ever expanding and deepening.

Zhai said the two sides have already successfully held two rounds of the China-AU Strategic Dialogue and that construction of the AU Conference Center, which China helps build, is proceeding well.

China values the friendly cooperative relationship with the AU and views the AU as an important partner on African and even global issues, said Zhai.

China would like to further strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the AU to advance relations between the two sides, he said.

Jean Ping described China as a reliable friend and partner of African countries.

The AU appreciates China's constructive role in both international and African affairs, China's important contribution to African development and its support for Africa's integration, he said.

Jean Ping said the AU hopes to further enhance coordination and exchange of views and promote cooperation with China in dealing with major global issues.

The two also exchanged views on a number of other issues including the situation in Africa and climate change.