Chinese, Indian leaders on Friday exchanged congratulatory messages on the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between their two countries.

In his message to Indian President Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, Chinese President Hu Jintao noted that recent years witnessed a remarkable progress in the two countries' exchanges and cooperation, especially their coordination in international and regional affairs.

Further strengthening of the long-term partnership of constructive cooperation between the two countries serves the fundamental interests of the people of both countries, Hu said, adding that it also contributes to mutual prosperity.

He said China is ready to work with India to promote good- neighborly friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation on the basis of the five principles of peaceful co-existence, which were jointly initiated by India and China.

Kalam, for his part, said the five principles of peaceful co- existence not only serve as the foundation of India-China relations, but as a guide to peace, stability and development in the world at large.

He said bilateral ties developed fairly well in recent years and he is confident of better cooperation in the future.

In his message to Indian Prime minister Manmohan Singh, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said the Chinese and Indian peoples have a long history of friendly contacts.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 55 years ago, and especially since the beginning of this century, the good- neighborly friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries has entered a new era of comprehensive development, he said.

Singh said the frequent exchanges of visits by Indian and Chinese leaders in recent years have greatly promoted mutual understanding and trust.

India hopes the two countries take a global and strategic perspective and continue to enrich and enhance their partnership of constructive cooperation, he said.

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Indian Foreign Minister Natwar Singh also exchanged congratulatory messages on the same day.