Xi, Qatari emir exchange congratulations on 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties

BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday exchanged congratulations with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

With the two sides' joint efforts, bilateral relations have maintained a good momentum for growth since the establishment of diplomatic ties 30 years ago, Xi said in his congratulatory message.

Political mutual trust between the two countries has been constantly enhanced, cooperation in various fields steadily pushed forward and cultural exchanges increasingly frequent, said the Chinese president.

Recalling Tamim's successful state visit to China in November 2014, Xi said he and Tamim jointly announced the establishment of China-Qatar strategic partnership, opening a new chapter for bilateral relations.

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Qatar relations, and appreciate Qatar's active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative," he said.

Xi said he is willing to work with the Qatari emir and take the 30th anniversary as a new starting point to promote the constant advancement of China-Qatar relations so as to better benefit the two countries and peoples.

In his congratulatory message, Tamim said he stands ready to work with Xi to support and promote the development of bilateral ties in various fields, and advance the common interest of the two peoples.

Qatar will continue to actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative so as to realize common prosperity, he said.