Chinese State Councilor Ma Kai and visiting Slovenian Prime Minister Borut Pahor Thursday vowed to expand friendly relations between their countries.

Ma said bilateral relations had developed smoothly since the two nations established diplomatic ties 18 years ago.

Slovenia actively participated in the Shanghai World Expo, and Ma hoped the Expo could help build a platform of mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation between the people of the two countries.

Pahor said he was delighted to attend the Slovenia Day activities and conveyed warm congratulations on the success of the Expo.

Hailing the mutual trust and respect between Slovenia and China, he said there was broad space for the development of bilateral relations, and Slovenia was ready to work with China to advance friendly cooperation.