China's Foreign Ministry on Thursday expressed gratitude to Russia after Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed condolences over the deadly floods in central China's Henan Province that have killed at least 33 people.

Speaking at a daily press briefing, the spokesperson Zhao Lijian said it demonstrates the friendship between the two countries.

In a message to President Xi Jinping, Putin "conveyed sincere sympathy to those who lost their families and friends as a result of this disaster and wished early recovery to all those affected," the Kremlin said on Wednesday in a statement.

Zhao noted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation, adding that the bilateral relationship is at its best in history. 

Putin's message to Xi shows mutual support between the two countries – a connotation of the China-Russia relations in the new era – and the close personal friendship between the two leaders, Zhao said. 

China stands ready to make joint efforts with Russia to further improve their ties, he said. 

Read more: 

President Xi stresses ensuring people's safety as top priority in fighting floods

Live: Rescue work continues as record rainfall hits central China

The spokesperson also thanked Pakistan for its support to China as the country battles against the floods. 

Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri expressed sympathy for the affected Chinese families and people in a tweet on Thursday. "Pakistan stands ready to assist our Chinese brothers and sisters in this hour of need," he said. 

Zhao said China and Pakistan are "friends who share weal and woe," noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. 

China is willing to work with Pakistan to further develop their relations and contribute to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, he said. 

(Cover: Rescue workers pump water out of a road in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, July 21, 2021. /CFP)