The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) would strive to continue developing friendship with China, a senior DPRK lawmaker said Thursday at a reception held by China's new ambassador to the country.

The traditional DPRK-China friendship, which was fostered by the two countries' elder generations of revolutionaries, would be further strengthened and promoted, said Yang Hyong Sop, vice president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA).

He said the bilateral relationship had been consolidated and was progressing smoothly under the top leaders from both countries.

Liu Hongcai, the new Chinese ambassador, said China was willing to develop friendly and cooperative ties with the DPRK and enrich its content, adding the country would join hands with the DPRK to protect and expand mutual interests and promote common development.

Liu arrived in the DPRK on March 5 and has presented his credentials to Kim Yong Nam, president of the SPA.