"China has always regarded solidarity and cooperation with African countries as an important cornerstone of our foreign policy," Xi said.

China will work with African countries to align its initiatives to support Africa's industrialization, agricultural modernization and talent development with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the development strategies of African countries; and to further integrate the development of China, Africa and the world to promote the upgrading of China-Africa cooperation and move the world towards a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress, Xi said.

China is ready to work with African friends, including Sierra Leone, to make this year's session of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) a success, Xi said.