China wishes sound development of relations with Myanmar: ambassador

China wishes sound and stable development of relations with Myanmar and ever lasting Paukphaw (fraternal) friendship, Chinese Ambassador Hong Liang told a reception given by him to mark the 67th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which will be on Oct. 1.

Hong noted that China and Myanmar have been enjoying good relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1950.

Guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, China and Myanmar have established a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and the bilateral relations are in good momentum, he said.

He expressed delight over China's continuation to be the largest trading partner and largest foreign investor for Myanmar, saying that for the past six months, China's investment in Myanmar increased by more than 50 percent compared to the same period of last year.

He voiced China's support for the democratization process in Myanmar. He said China also supports Myanmar's efforts in pushing forward the domestic peace process in a more inclusive manner and welcomes the successful convening of the 21st Century Panglong Conference.

He said it is very natural for close neighbors like China and Myanmar to have some difficult issues between them, expressing confidence that the two countries can work together and address all the challenges well in the spirit of Pauk-Phaw friendship and even turn the challenges into opportunities.

Speaking at the reception, Myanmar Vice President U Henry Van Thio praised China's support for the development of the region through the "Belt and Road" initiative, expressing the belief that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank will benefit the region's infrastructural development.

He thanked China for its support of Myanmar's national reconciliation and peace efforts and the people's socio-economic development efforts after the new government took office. Endit