BEIJING - Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin will attend the 16th Ordinary Session of African Union (AU) summit from January 30 to 31, a foreign ministry spokesman said Tuesday.

At the invitation of the AU Commission, Liu, as special envoy of the Chinese government, will attend the summit in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa, spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular press conference.

"China attaches great importance to the friendly and cooperative relationship it has with the AU. It considers the relationship an indispensable part of the China-Africa strategic partnership," Hong said.

In recent years, the China-AU relationship has developed soundly, Hong said.

Both parties have enjoyed frequent high-level exchange, promoted cooperation in various areas, and enhanced strategic mutual trust, Hong said.

The two sides firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests, Hong added.

China hopes to deepen the strategic dialogue and political mutual trust with the AU, Hong said.

More than 34 heads of state and governments will take part in the 16th AU Summit.

The summit will be held under the theme "Towards Greater Unity and Integration through Shared Values."