BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi met with Foreign Minister of Zambia Harry Kalaba and State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Uganda Henry Oryem Okello here on Tuesday.

Yang said China attached high importance to relations with Africa and is ready to provide assistance for African countries for maintaining peace and stability, and for social and economic development.

He said China will work with African countries to promote their strategic partnership to achieve new progress.

The African guests said China was Africa's trustworthy and reliable friend and thanked China's for steady support in international affairs. They also voiced willingness to further enhance exchanges and cooperation with China in all areas.

Yang also discussed with the two diplomats issues such as reform of UN Security Council.