2010-07-21 23:48

BEIJING - China and Indonesia Wednesday celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties at a reception here.

Addressing the reception, Chen Haosu, president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship, said Indonesia was one of the first southeast Asian countries to establish diplomatic ties with China.

Bilateral ties reached a new level in 2005 with the forging of a bilateral strategic partnership.

China and Indonesia have deepened political mutual trust and maintained close coordination in regional and international affairs, Chen said.

Advancing the bilateral relations not only serves the interests of both nations but also promotes China-ASEAN relations and regional and world peace and development, Chen said.

China hopes to take advantage of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties to further develop the bilateral relationship, Chen added.

Indonesian ambassador to China Imron Cotan said both sides have enjoyed increases in political and cultural exchange.

Indonesia is determined to further develop the bilateral relationship, Cotan added.