Chinese, Finnish presidents exchange congratulations on anniversary of ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Finnish counterpart Sauli Niinisto on Wednesday exchanged congratulations on the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between their countries.

Finland was among the first Western countries to recognize the People's Republic of China and establish diplomatic ties with the new-born country. China has been Finland's biggest trading partner in Asia for over 10 years while Finland has become China's important technology partner in Europe.

In his message, Xi said that for 65 years, China and Finland have enjoyed a true friendship with mutual support and mutual trust as well as a partnership featuring equality, mutual benefits and win-win cooperation.

As the two countries are working toward a future-oriented partnership, China is willing to make joint efforts with the Finnish side to take the opportunity to deepen cooperation and forge a better future for the two nations, Xi said.

Niinisto said in his message that areas of cooperation have expanded since China and Finland established diplomatic ties.

China is currently Finland's biggest trading partner in Asia, as the two countries have deepened cultural exchanges, while frequent high-level visits have laid the foundation for bilateral cooperation, Niinisto said.

The China-Finland future-oriented partnership will bring new opportunities for further fruitful cooperation, he said. Endi