Chinese, Portuguese Leaders Exchange Congratulations on 40th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on February 8 exchanged congratulations on the 40th anniversary of the establishment of China-Portugal diplomatic relations.

China and Portugal enjoy a long history of friendship, said Xi in his congratulatory message, adding that over the past four decades, the two countries, in the spirit of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and win-win, have promoted healthy and steady development of bilateral ties.

Since a comprehensive strate- gic partnership was established in 2005, China and Portugal have witnessed frequent high-level exchanges, deepening political mutual trust as well as remarkable achievements of mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas, Xi added.

Xi said he highly values the development of the two countries’ ties. By taking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of China-Portugal diplomatic ties as a new starting point, he added that he is willing to work together with Rebelo de Sousa to take the two countries’ comprehensive strategic partnership to a higher level to better benefit the two countries and their people.

Noting the harmonious coexistence of Portugal and China, Rebelo de Sousa said the two countries always seek common ground while putting aside differences and pursue mutual benefit and win-win results.

Portugal is very proud of the long-term and peaceful relations with China, Rebelo de Sousa said, adding that he believes the two countries will make unremitting efforts with firm determination and enthusiasm to promote their long-term steady friendship to continuously move forward.