China, DPRK to further enhance bilateral ties

Wu Bangguo (R Front), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, meets with Premier of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Yong Il (L Front) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 19, 2009. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, March 19 (Xinhua) -- Senior officials from China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Thursday expressed the hope to jointly promote the development of bilateral ties.

At a meeting with DPRK Premier Kim Yong Il in Beijing, Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), hailed the development of relations since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1949.

They had maintained frequent high-level contacts and coordinated well in international and regional affairs, Wu said. Mutually beneficial cooperation and personnel exchanges had also extended.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of China-DPRK diplomatic ties. The China-DPRK Friendship Year was launched in Beijing Wednesday night to celebrate the relationship.

"We believe China-DPRK ties will be refreshed and revitalized with the support of the leaders and peoples of the two countries," Wu said.

Pointing out the traditional exchanges between the NPC and DPRK Supreme People's Assembly, Wu said the NPC was willing to enhance exchanges and cooperation with the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly to contribute to the advancement of bilateral relationship.

Kim said it had long been the DPRK's firm stance to cement relations with China and the DPRK would use the China-DPRK Friendship Year to push forward friendly cooperation.

Kim is on a five-day official visit to China.