China Cherishes its Friendship with Afghanistan: Li

KABUL – As the People's Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties and the "Year of China-Afghanistan Friendship and Cooperation, Chinese President Jinping Xi said in his message, I would like to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, warm congratulations and best wishes to the Afghan government and people.

Mr. Xi added that “Over the past 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Afghanistan have always enjoyed mutual understanding, mutual respect and mutual support. Our friendship has taken a deep root in people's heart. Your successful visit to China last October has greatly strengthened the China-Afghanistan Strategic and Cooperative Partnership.”

He further added that I attach high importance to China-Afghanistan relations. The Chinese side firmly supports peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan and stands ready to play a constructive role in helping Afghanistan advance its peace and reconciliation process and bring China-Afghanistan relations to a new level.

While Chinese premier, Li Keqiang, in his message to Afghan CEO Dr. Abdullah Abdullah said China and Afghanistan enjoy time-honored friendly relations. Over the past 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Afghanistan, committed to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, have always understood, respected and supported each other. Our two countries have established the Strategic and Cooperative Partnership and carried out productive friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.

Chinese premier further added that the Chinese government cherishes its friendship with Afghanistan and is committed to growing the Strategic and Cooperative Partnership between the two countries.

We are willing to provide support and assistance to Afghanistan's peace and reconciliation so as to ensure its economic growth, people's well-being and long-term security and stability. I stand ready to work with you to advance our bilateral relations and bring more benefits to our peoples, he added.