The Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and the China-India Friendship Association hosted a reception Thursday to mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India.  

Addressing the reception, Chen Haosu, president of CPAFFC, said that the relationship between China and India has experienced its ups and downs, but the friendship between the two peoples has never changed.

As developing countries, China and India have many similarities. Pushing the friendly and mutual-beneficial ties not only benefits the interests of the two peoples, but also benefits regional peace and stability, said Chen.

Nalin Surie, Indian ambassador to China, said the reception this year has a special meaning because it was held just before Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to India next month. He said he hopes Wen's visit will be a milestone that will push forward bilateral ties and promote mutual understanding and trust.

(Xinhua News Agency April 1, 2005)