Beijing: China has denied that it has been buying land in Africa, and called on countries to undertake "concrete" measures to enable the development of the agricultural sector on the continent.

"China always seeks food self-sufficiency through its own domestic output," Xinhua quoted Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei, as saying.

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China has been providing technical assistance to enable development of agriculture and enhance Africa’s capacity of utilizing its natural resources and addressing issues such as climate change and food security, Lei added. He further said "there is indeed neo-colonialism in Africa, but absolutely not from China."

Lei also quoted South African President Jacob Zuma, as dismissing China``s "neo-colonialism" engagement with Africa as untruthful.

"As an important strategic partner, China has made great contributions to the economic development and the betterment of people``s livelihood in South Africa," Lei said. He pointed out that China donated 443.2 million Yuan in cash and kind to provide relief famine-hit countries in the Horn of Africa, which was the country’s largest donation since 1949.

Hong also urged "those countries that actually possess vast land" to "listen to the voice of Africa and take concrete measures" and take steps to ensure long-term food security in Africa. ANI