China believes that the establishment of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) is a major milestone in regional integration, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said on Monday.

Chinese President Hu Jintao sent a message last Friday to congratulate the founders of CELAC.

Hong said that China appreciates the positive role of Latin American and Caribbean countries in international and regional affairs.

China believes that CELAC will make important contributions to unity and coordination in the region as well as joint efforts to counter global challenges, said Hong.

China attaches great importance to its relations with Latin America and is willing to work with CELAC and countries in the region to build and develop a comprehensive cooperative partnership of mutual benefit and common development through dialogue, communication and cooperation, said the spokesman.

Leaders from 33 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean gathered in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas on last Friday to participate in the historic founding summit of the new regional bloc.