Hu inked a major loan agreement with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam worth US$260 million to fund the extension of the terminal building at the island’s only airport.

The two leaders also signed an interest-free loan deal from China to Mauritius worth US$6.5 million as well as US$5 million grant from China to the island.

In addition, they discussed plans by China to create an industrial zone outside the capital Port Louis worth US$750 million that is expected to create 34,000 jobs.

Despite the global economic downturn, Hu said, “China will continue to offer help to Africa within its ability.”

On his part, Ramgoolam said bilateral relations were “a model of solidarity and co-operation between China and Africa”.

The Chinese president arrived on February 16 after previously Tanzania, Mali and Senegal.