Xi congratulates newly sworn-in Indonesian president

BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday congratulated newly sworn-in Indonesian President Joko Widodo on his assumption of office as the new Indonesian head of state.

China and Indonesia are good neighbors and good friends that enjoy a harmonious relationship and that trust each other, Xi said at a phone conversation with Widodo, who took office on Monday.

The two countries face similar domestic situations and development tasks and share broad common interests in bilateral, regional and international affairs, he said.

Indonesia is a bellwether for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and a major representative of emerging economies in the world, the Chinese president said.

Strengthening comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries conforms with the common interests of both countries and is also conducive to regional and world peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.

"I am willing to establish a good work relationship with you, jointly promote bilateral exchange and cooperation, push forward the establishment of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and promote continued achievement of new progress in the China-Indonesia comprehensive strategic partnership to realize mutual benefit, a win-win situation and common development," Xi added.

Xi welcomed Widodo to Beijing to attend the informal leaders' meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum next month and expected to meet him on the occasion.

Widodo said that to advance Indonesia's comprehensive strategic partnership with China is very important to both countries, to Asia as well as to the world.

Widodo said he attaches great importance to enhancing friendly cooperation between the two countries.

Indonesia hopes to deepen cooperation with China in the fields of economy and trade, investment, infrastructure construction, among other areas, Widodo said.

The new Indonesian president said he is looking forward to going to China to attend the APEC informal leaders' meeting and hold talks with President Xi to boost cooperation between the two countries.