Isaias emotionally recalled his special attachment to China over the past 50-plus years, saying that his people will never forget the precious support from China in their efforts to win independence and liberation.

China is a great country and any attempt to contain China's development is doomed to failure, he said.

He appealed for stronger cooperation between the two countries and expressed belief that the bilateral strategic partnership will help Eritrea achieve economic and social development.

Premier Li Qiang also held talks with Isaias on Monday.

Trade between China and Eritrea grew by 32.2 percent year-on-year to $610 million in 2022, with China mainly exporting electronic and mechanical products and importing copper ore and leather products from the African nation.