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BEIJING: President Hu Jintao on Tuesday pledged to push forward China's relations with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), saying cementing friendly ties between the two countries has been a consistent policy of China.
"Under the current complicated and changeful international situation, it is in the fundamental interests of the two peoples and also benefits peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the world to further promote friendly exchanges and expand pragmatic cooperation between the two countries," said Hu when meeting with a delegation from the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) of the DPRK.
Hailing Sino-DPRK relations over the past year, Hu said the leaders of the two countries and parties maintained frequent contacts on major issues of common concerns.
The two sides celebrated the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties by holding the Year of Friendship, which renewed the traditional friendship and upgraded the relationship, he said.
Kim Yong Il, director of the International Affairs Department of the WPK Central Committee, said the DPRK values friendship with China.
He hoped to further exchanges between the two parties to contribute to Sino-DPRK relations.
Wang Jiarui, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, also met with the DPRK delegation early Tuesday.