BEIJING: Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Wednesday pledged greater aid for Africa and vowed to work with the continent in overcoming the international financial crisis, state media reported.

In talks with the African Union's top official Jean Ping, Wen praised the union's efforts to bring political stability to the continent, Xinhua news agency said.

"We will further extend aid to African nations to overcome difficulties in accordance with Africa's real needs," Xinhua quoted Wen as saying during talks.

"China will actively expand Sino-African trade and investment and push forward increased international aid for Africa."

China was willing to work with African nations on global issues such as overcoming the financial crisis and in ongoing climate change negotiations, the report said.

Ping said the African Union was grateful for China's efforts to help the continent develop and would welcome greater cooperation with Beijing in all areas, the report said.