Celebration function of the golden jubilee of China-Nepal diplomatic relations was held Monday in Kathmandu.

"Nepal-China relations, having a long and illustrious history of friendship, excellent relationship and exchanges, have taken a new dimension and reached a new height after the establishment of diplomatic relations on August 1, 1955," Kirti Nidhi Bista, vice chairman of Nepali Council of Ministers, said at the celebration function hosted by the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Sun Heping.

"Mutual understanding and our mutual commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence have always remained the cornerstone of our bilateral ties," Bista said.

China is one of the most important contributors to Nepal's socio-economic development, Bista noted, adding, "We highly appreciate Chinese cooperation, and are thankful to the Chinese government and people for their help."

A stable and prosperous China will not only solve problems faced by the people in less developed western region of China but also open up new opportunities and cooperation between the two countries, Bista added.

"Nowadays, mutual understanding, respect and trust, and treating each other equally have become salient characters of China-Nepal relations," Sun said at the function.

"There is no outstanding problem but friendship and cooperation between Nepal and China," Sun said, adding, "We will continue to be Nepal's good neighbor, friend and partner."

(Xinhua News Agency August 2, 2005)