By the Caribbean Journal staff

China has pledged to expand bilateral cooperation with Guyana following the country’s election last Monday.

Chinese President Hu Jintao sent a congratulatory message to new Guyanese President Donald Ramotar on behalf of the Chinese government and people.

Jintao said recent years had seen frequent high-level exchanges, further political mutual trust and fruitful cooperation in a number of sectors between the two countries, including trade, infrastructure and the economy.

The letter said China was ready to make joint efforts with Guyana for continued enrichment and expansion of cooperation.

China has partnered on a number of projects in Guyana of late, including the distribution of netbook computers to Guyanese citizens.

China’s Shanghai Construction Group will also be undertaking construction on the new $51 million Marriott hotel in Georgetown.