"With joint efforts, I am convinced that the China-DPRK Friendship Year will reach its expected goals and yield fruitful results," Wen said.

The year-long exchange program will cover a series of cultural events like art performances, photo exhibitions and art shows.

Premier of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Yong Il (L) delivers a speech as Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao listens during a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the China-DPRK diplomatic relations and the launch of the China-DPRK Friendship Year in Beijing, capital of China, March 18, 2009. [Ma Zhancheng/Xinhua]

Kim, who was on his first visit to China since taking office in April 2007, said DPRK-China friendship was the common treasure of both nations.

"Our party and government have paid much attention to the bilateral friendship and committed themselves to promoting the development of our traditional friendship," Kim said.

Kim said the DPRK would work with China to make the Friendship Year a success.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (2nd R, 2nd Line) and his counterpart of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Yong Il (3rd L, 2nd Line) wave as they pose for a group photo with performers after the performance for the launch of the China-DPRK Friendship Year in Beijing, capital of China, March 18, 2009. [Ma Zhancheng/Xinhua]

Following the leaders' speeches, more than 2,000 people from both countries watched an hour-long gala featuring folk songs and dances from both countries.

During his five-day visit to China, Kim will also meet with other Chinese state leaders.