Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolence to Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou over the passing of former Greek President Karolos Papoulias.

Calling Papoulias an outstanding politician and leader of Greece and an old friend of the Chinese people, Xi said that the former Greek president had been committed to deepening China-Greece friendship and actively promoting bilateral practical cooperation in various fields.

He firmly supported Beijing in hosting the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, making important contributions to the development of China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi said.

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Greece relations and am ready to work with President Sakellaropoulou to deepen the traditional friendship between the two countries and push for new achievements in cooperation in all areas for the benefit of the two countries and two peoples," he added.