Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday sent a message of condolences to Chilean President Gabriel Boric over the passing of former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended deep condolences and expressed sincere sympathies to the Chilean people and Pinera's family.

In his message, Xi pointed out that Pinera was an outstanding politician of Chile and had devoted himself to the development of China-Chile relations and mutually beneficial and friendly cooperation, actively contributing to the friendship of the two countries.

The Chinese people have lost an old friend – a good friend – after Pinera's passing, Xi said.

"I highly regard the development of China-Chile relations and stand ready to work with President Boric to continue to promote the ongoing consolidation and development of the China-Chile comprehensive strategic partnership," Xi said.

Pinera, who was Chile's president from 2010 to 2014 and 2018 to 2022, died on Tuesday when his private helicopter crashed on the shores of Lake Ranco in southern Chile.

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: File photo of former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera. /Xinhua)