The 43rd anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) was marked at an official reception Friday in Beijing.

Raidi, vice-chairman of the Chinese National People's Congress Standing Committee, addressed the reception, saying that the two sides, in the principle of the treaty, had strengthened friendly cooperation in all spheres and contributed to regional security.

Signed in Beijing on July 11, 1961, the treaty aims at cementing the two countries' friendly cooperative and mutual-aid relations, jointly ensuring the security of the two peoples, and maintaining and consolidating the peace in Asia and the world.

Raidi said China is satisfied with momentum of high-level visits, concerted efforts on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue and expanded economic cooperation.

He said, 2004 is of great significance for both sides, citing DPRK top leader Kim Jong Il paid a successful unofficial visit to China in April, and October 6 marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations. China believes the bilateral ties will gain momentum in a new regional and international context.

DPRK Ambassador to China Choe Jin Su said the Sino-DPRK relationship will continue to develop on the basis of common strategic interests and consensus reached by leaders of the two nations in Kim Jong Il's visit to China in April.