Chinese President Hu Jintao on Thursday exchanged congratulations with his Philippine counterpart, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between their two countries.

Hu said in his message that bilateral relations have scored remarkable progress, brought tangible benefits to both countries and peoples and made positive contributions to peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

"China and the Philippines are close neighbors facing each other across the sea and the friendship between our two peoples dates back to over one thousand years ago," Hu said, adding the friendship has become shared treasure of the two peoples.

Hu recalled his visit to Manila in April, during which both sides agreed to establish the China-Philippines strategic and cooperative relationship for peace and development.

"Following this direction, I would like to work with you to vigorously promote our strategic cooperation in all areas and build an even brighter future for our bilateral relations," said the Chinese leader.

Arroyo said in her message that the past 30 years have see the journey of two neighbors and longstanding friends towards new and closer levels of cooperation, mutual understanding and goodwill.

"These many years of great efforts and achievements of breakthroughs and milestones, have shaped Phillipines-China relations into one that is vibrant, encompassing and beneficial to both countries and the region," said Arroyo.

The two countries are at their golden age of partnership, said the Philippine leader, adding she has no doubt that the targets set by the two leaders will be realized.

Source: Xinhua