China will, as always, firmly support the Republic of the Congo in safeguarding its national independence and opposing foreign interference, said Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday.

Xi made the remarks in a meeting with President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Xi noted that Sassou Nguesso is an old and good friend of the Chinese people. The sound development of the two countries' ties is inseparable to Sassou Nguesso, who highly values and sticks to the friendliness toward China, Xi said. He thanked the Republic of the Congo for its firm support on issues of China's core interests. In return, Xi promised that China will, as always, firmly support the Republic of the Congo in safeguarding its national independence, opposing foreign interference and playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs.

Xi pointed out that the two countries will mark the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year. He said China is willing to work with the Republic of the Congo in planning the celebration, maintaining close exchanges, enhancing political mutual trust, and deepening practical cooperation, so that the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two counties can achieve more.

Sassou Nguesso said that he still has fresh memories of President Xi's state visit to his country in 2013. He stressed that Chinese companies have taken on many construction projects of his country and that the friendship and cooperation with China is an important factor in his country's continuous development. 

He thanked China's support and help, and showed great expectation to the 60th anniversary of the two countries' diplomatic ties next year, adding that he hopes the two countries will take the opportunity of the celebration to promote the greater development of their relationship. The Republic of the Congo is willing to work with China to deepen communication and collaboration on international affairs and safeguard the interests of developing countries, he said.

(With input from Xinhua)