Chinese President Hu Jintao and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono exchanged on Wednesday congratulatory messages to mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Hu said in a message that China and Indonesia, as close neighbors, have forged deep friendship during the struggles for national independence and cooperation among Asian and African countries in the 20th century.

In recent years, the development of bilateral ties in all fields has greatly benefited the two peoples and contributed to peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the world at large, said Hu.

Hu noted that both countries are in the momentous phase for development, adding that China is willing to join hands with Indonesia to expand traditional friendship and promote the bilateral ties, enhance coordination and lend support to each other in regional affairs and multilateral fora.

Susilo, in his message, said the Indonesian people value the existing friendship between the two countries and expect a brighter prospect for the bilateral ties.