Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed the lasting friendship between China and the Republic of the Congo and called for enhanced bilateral cooperation when holding phone talks with President Denis Sassou Nguesso on Monday.

During the conversation, Xi hailed the long-term friendship between the two sides. 

Noting that the two countries support each other in defending international justice and the common interests of developing countries, Xi said bilateral ties had been strengthened through the process.

China is ready to work with the Republic of the Congo to deepen mutual trust and increase exchanges on national governance between the two sides so as to push forward the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation to a higher level.

The Chinese president assured his counterpart that China will continue to support the Republic of the Congo on its path of development as well as in its national sovereignty, security and development interests.

China supports the Republic of the Congo converting its resources and regional advantages to development advantages, Xi stated, adding that China is ready to deepen cooperation with Congo in areas such as public health, agriculture and livelihoods.

China will also provide assistance in the fight against COVID-19 and facilitate the country in its industrialization and economic diversification process, the Chinese president pledged.

Noting that China and African countries jointly launched the Initiative on Partnership for Africa's Development, Xi said that China is ready to work with the Congo side to strive for the greater participation of other countries and facilitate African development with joint efforts.

For his part, Sassou spoke highly of China's achievement in eradicating extreme poverty and its fight against COVID-19.

He thanked China for supporting his country in pandemic control as well as national economic and social development while reiterating that the country is ready to support China in international affairs and keep deepening the bilateral relationship through joint efforts.