The outgoing Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Cameroon, Xue Jinwei has described relations between China and Cameroon as rapidly developing. He had a farewell audience with Cameroon's Prime Minister, Head of Government, Philemon Yang at the Star Building yesterday, August 1.

Talking to the press after discussions with the Prime Minister, the Chinese diplomat said two important events marked his two and a half-year stay in Cameroon. He cited specifically the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Cameroon's independence and 40th anniversary of relations between Cameroon and China. Xue Jinwei said the two events gave both countries the opportunity to promote bilateral cooperation.

Ambassador Xue Jinwei's tenure in Cameroon will be remembered as one during which Cameroon and China signed loan agreements to finance infrastructure projects in the country. The Ambassador cited the Kribi Deep Seaport, Mekin and Memve'le Dams and Yaounde-Douala double-carriage road. He also cited the project to construct 1,500 low-cost houses in Yaounde, Douala, Limbe and Bafoussam. The Chinese government has substantially increased scholarships awarded to Cameroonian students and the number of Cameroonians participating in seminars in China.

As for perspectives, the Ambassador said there were ongoing negotiations for China to support pipe-borne water supply in Yaounde and nine other towns in Cameroon, adding that future cooperation projects will focus on addressing the common needs of Cameroonians. Xue Jinwei while describing Cameroon as a rich country with hospitable people, expressed regret leaving it. He leaves Cameroon for the Chinese capital, Beijing.