African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Jean Ping on Sunday hailed the friendly cooperation between China and the AU as well as African countries.

Ping made the remarks at the Egyptian Red Sea resort during his talks with the Chinese special envoy and Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai Jun, who are here to attend the upcoming 11th AU Summit.

He expressed his appreciation to the Chinese government's assistance to the AU and reiterated the AU's adherence to the one-China policy and support China hosting of 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

The AU would like to boost consultation and cooperation with China on the regional and international affairs, Ping noted.

For his part, Zhai Jun conveyed a congratulation letter from Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to the upcoming AU summit and regards from State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi to Ping.

The Chinese official hailed the AU's achievement since its establishment in 2002 and its important role on regional affairs, stressing China's commitment to support African countries' efforts for unity, cooperation and development.

Zhai expressed sincere thanks to AU commission on behalf of the Chinese government and people for its deep condolences to China over the deadly earthquake in southwest China's Sichuan province.

The Chinese government decided to provide 300,000 U.S. dollars and 500,000 dollars in donation to the AU to support the pan-African body's institution building and efforts to solve Sudan's Darfur problem respectively.

During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on the latest developments in Africa and other issues of common concern.

Under the theme of "Meeting the Millennium Development Goals on Water and Sanitation," the 11th AU Summit is scheduled on Monday and Tuesday in Sharm El-Sheikh with the participation of 53 AU members.