Chinese President Hu Jintao and his Bulgarian counterpart Georgi Parvanov exchanged greetings Monday to mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Hu said in a congratulatory message to Parvanov that in the past 55 years, China and Bulgaria have been trusting and understanding each other, and the relations between the two countries have been developing smoothly.

The Chinese government, regarding Bulgaria as a trusted friend and partner, has attached great importance to the friendly relations and cooperation, he added.

It will serve the common interests of both sides to enhance Sino-Bulgarian relations and deepen their traditional friendship, Hu stressed.

China will work with Bulgaria to advance bilateral relations, said the Chinese president.

Parvanov said in his congratulatory telegram to Hu that he is very satisfied with the current relationship with China, and it is of great significance to boost it.
 
(Xinhua News Agency October 4, 2004)