Chinese premier meets DPRK counterpart on bilateral ties

PYONGYANG, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao held talks with his Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) counterpart Kim Yong Il Sunday afternoon on efforts to further bilateral ties.

Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) meets with his Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) counterpart Kim Yong Il in Pyo- ngyang, capital of DPRK, Oct.4, 2009. (Xinhua photo)

The China-DPRK friendship, fostered by founders of the two countries and subject to all tests of the changing times, has been constantly strengthened and improved, Wen said.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties and coincides with the China-DPRK Friendship Year, he noted.

The Chinese premier said that for six decades, China and the DPRK have supported each other politically, helped each other economically and learned from each other culturally.

They have also coordinated with each other on multilateral issues and made positive contributions to their respective development and peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and the region as a whole, the premier added.

A review of bilateral relations over the past six decades revealed several important points on the development of these ties. One is mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the path of development of their own choice, Wen said.

The other is mutual assistance to deepen their friendship. China has provided assistance within its power to the DPRK to help with its economic development and improve its people's lives; and likewise, the DPRK has offered help and support to China, Wen added.

Still another is mutually beneficial cooperation that supplies with each other's needs and bring tangible benefit to the two peoples.