A reception was held in Beijing Tuesday evening to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Colombia.

"China and Colombia have witnessed a comprehensive and fast development of bilateral relations since they established diplomatic ties 30 years ago, with increasing political mutual trust and expanding reciprocal cooperation," said Li Xiaolin, vice president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the host of the reception.

Colombian Ambassador to China Guillermo Velez also praised the development of bilateral relations in the past 30 years, saying the two countries have had remarkable cooperation in trade, education, culture and military areas.

China has become Colombia's third largest trading partner, he said.

Chen Zhili, vice chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, also attended the reception.