China honorary member in Ethiopia's celebration of Africa Day

Ethiopia hosted a celebration of African independence on Friday, with China looking like an honorary member of this struggling continent as the only non-African delegation to attend.

The Chinese delegation's presence at Africa Day was the latest example of increased ties between Africa and China. Chinese investment in Africa, in terms of business ties, aid and attempts to secure political influence, has soared in recent years in deals to keep Africa's natural resources flowing to China's booming economy.

"The Chinese government cherishes its relationship with the African Union," said Wang Chao, assistant minister of commerce for the Chinese government.

China is spending US$150 million to expand the African Union headquarters in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

The new premises will stand on the site of an infamous prison where former dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam executed 60 top officials of the late Emperor Haile Selassie.

"I say, long may this spirit of China-Africa cooperation live. Thank you, China," said Ghanaian President John Kufuor, who holds the rotating AU chairmanship.