President Hu Jintao exchanged congratulations on Thursday with his Philippine counterpart, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

 

"China and the Philippines are close neighbors facing each other across the sea and the friendship between our two peoples dates back to over one thousand years," Hu said, adding that the friendship has become a shared treasure of the two peoples.?

 

"These many years of great efforts and achievements, breakthroughs and milestones have shaped the Philippines-China relationship into one that is vibrant, encompassing and beneficial to both countries and the region," said Arroyo.

 

Hu said bilateral relations have scored remarkable progress, brought tangible benefits to both countries and peoples and made positive contributions to peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

 

He recalled his visit to Manila in April, during which both sides agreed to establish the China-Philippines strategic and cooperative relationship for peace and development.

 

"Following this direction, I would like to work with you to vigorously promote our strategic cooperation in all areas and build an even brighter future for our bilateral relations," Hu told Arroyo.

 

Arroyo said in her message that the past 30 years have seen the journey of two neighbors and longstanding friends towards new and closer levels of cooperation, mutual understanding and goodwill.

 

The two countries are at their golden age of partnership, she said, adding she has no doubt that the targets set by the two leaders will be realized.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 9, 2005)