Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan on Monday sent a congratulatory message to Sadako Ogata, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to mark the 50th anniversary of the UNHCR Office.

In his letter to Ogata, Tang expressed China's "sincere congratulations" to her on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the UNHCR Office.

"Over the past five decades since its founding, UNHCR has made tremendous contribution to protecting and assisting refugees from all parts of the world. It has been doing a lofty and significant job, bringing warmth and hope to refugees in every corner of the world who need protection and help," Tang said.

Some of the staff of the UNHCR Office even sacrificed their lives while carrying out their duties, Tang added.

"China attaches great importance to the work concerning refugees," as China is a contracting party to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, Tang said.

The Chinese foreign minister also expressed his hope that the " friendly relationship and cooperation" between China and UNHCR Office will "continue and grow from strength to strength in the future."

(Xinhua 12/11/2000)