BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Former Namibian President Sam Nujoma on Thursday said the Beijing Olympics will enhance China's friendship and cooperation with other nations.

    "We are grateful for the invitation that allows us to observe the events of the Beijing Olympics," Nujoma said while meeting with Li Changchun, a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Political Bureau.

    Li extended a warm welcome for Nujoma's presence at the Games, which will open on Friday.

    "I am convinced that the Beijing Games will enhance China's links with other nations," Nujoma said.

    Li lauded Nujoma's outstanding contribution to China-Namibia ties and hailed the exchanges between the ruling parties of both countries.

    Li said China would like to work with Namibia to expand areas for cooperation.

    Nujoma, who served as president of Namibia from 1990 to 2005, said the Namibian people will always keep in mind China's support for Namibia's fight for independence and pursuit of economic prosperity.