International: Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended his congratulations to Colombia`s President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella, expressing confidence that bilateral ties will continue to deepen under the new administration.

In a congratulatory message sent on Monday, Xi noted that China and Colombia are strategic partners whose relations have continued to advance steadily despite changes in the international landscape since the establishment of diplomatic ties 46 years ago.

He said political mutual trust between the two countries has grown stronger, people-to-people friendship has deepened, and cooperation under the high-quality Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has achieved sustained progress.

Xi added that he attaches great importance to the development of China–Colombia relations and looks forward to working closely with President-elect de la Espriella to expand exchanges and practical cooperation across a wide range of fields.

He also expressed hope that joint efforts would elevate the China–Colombia strategic partnership to a new level, delivering greater benefits to the peoples of both countries.

On the same day, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng also sent a congratulatory message to Colombia`s Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo Abondano.

Source: Xinhua News Agency.