The Republic of the Sudan

    Located in the Northeast part of Africa, the republic of the Sudan covers an area of 2.5 million sq km, more than any other country in Africa. Islam and Christianity are the main religions for its 35 million residents. Arabic is the official language. Khartoum is the national capital. Sudan's Incumbent president is Omar Hassan al- Bashir.

    Since China established diplomatic relations with Sudan on Feb. 4th, 1959, the two countries have maintained long-term friendly relations. Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Sudanese President Bashir in 2005, on the sidelines of Asia-Africa Summit. Bilateral trade topped 3.9 billion U. S. dollars in 2005.