Chinese and Canadian prime ministers have exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In a message to Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao hailed the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Canada 35 years ago, and said great progress has been made during the past three and half decades.

Remarkable results have been achieved in bilateral cooperation in commerce, technology, education, culture and other fields, the premier said, and the two governments have kept close consultations and coordination over major international and regional issues.

The strategic partnership of the two countries established during Chinese President Hu Jintao's recent visit to Canada conforms to the fundamental interests and common aspirations of the two nations and the two peoples, and will contribute to stability and prosperity of the Asian-Pacific region, Wen said.

He expressed hope for further strengthening the partnership and broadening cooperation in various fields between the two nations.

In his message to Wen, the Canadian Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the flourishing bilateral relationship with China which has evolved into "what is truly a strategic partnership".

Canada and China are entering a new stage in the commercial relationship, Martin noted.

Investment, scientific and technological cooperation, and long-term partnerships are becoming increasingly important, he added.

He expressed belief that the coming decade will "see our commercial relationship transformed yet again".

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing also exchanged congratulatory messages on the occasion with his Canadian counterpart Pierre Pettigrew.

(Xinhua News Agency October 14, 2005)