Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged congratulatory messages with his Irish counterpart Michael D. Higgins on Saturday on the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. 

In his message, President Xi said that over the past four decades, the two nations have been promoting sound development of bilateral ties in the spirit of mutual respect, treating each other as equals and benefiting from win-win cooperation. 

China highly values its relations with Ireland, Xi said, adding that he would like to work with President Higgins to take China-Ireland relations to a new height. 

For his part, Higgins said in the message that his country attaches great importance to its relations with China and values the profound tradition of Ireland-China friendship.  

Higgins also called for the two sides to increase coordination and cooperation in international affairs, thus ensuring a sound development of ties.  

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar also exchanged congratulatory messages the same day, emphasizing their willingness to jointly promote the strategic partnership for mutually beneficial cooperation.