Addis Ababa, July 20, 2010 (Addis Ababa) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said Ethiopia is desirous to further bolster its bilateral cooperation with China.

While conferring with Chinese State Councilor, Dai Bingguo here on Tuesday, Meles said Ethiopia is keen to further consolidate its relations and cooperation with China.

He stressed that the two countries need to further strengthen their bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of the two nations.

Meles expressed hope that China would continue extending its development assistance to Ethiopia.

Dai told journalist after the talks that his discussion with PM Meles centered on further enhancing the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Dai said Ethiopia has been registering an encouraging economic growth.

He assured Meles that his country has a strong desire to further consolidate its cooperation with Ethiopia.

Meanwhile, Ethiopia and China signed here on Tuesday a 150 million Birr loan and aid agreement.

Some 80 million Birr of the stated sum will be used for undertaking projects which are being carried out with the Chinese assistance.

The agreement was signed by Finance and Economic Minister, Sufian Ahmed and Chinese Commerce Vice Minister Fu Ziying.

T-4:40-5:00pm.