国内英语新闻:Chinese premier, top DPRK leader celebrate 60th anniversary of bilateral ties

PYONGYANG, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Kim Jong Il, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), on Monday attended a grand celebration marking the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations and the closing ceremony of the China-DPRK Friendship Year.

    In a speech delivered at the May Day Stadium in Pyongyang, Premier Wen said China and the DPRK have understood, supported and helped each other during the past 60 years despite changes in the international situation.

    The ruling parties and peoples of China and the DPRK have steadily promoted the development of the bilateral ties, contributing to regional peace and stability, Wen said.

    This year marks the China-DPRK Friendship Year, featuring a variety of celebrations and events of exchanges, which have enhanced the friendship between the two countries, strengthened cooperation in various fields and injected new vitality into the bilateral ties, Wen said.

    Currently, China-DPRK relations have arrived at a new historic point, he said.

    China is ready to join hands with the DPRK to further consolidate and develop the traditional friendship, expand friendly exchanges and cooperation to better serve the well-being of both peoples, and make greater contribution to regional peace and stability, he noted.

    DPRK Premier Kim Yong Il, who also attended the event, said the establishment of DPRK-China relations 60 years ago was an epoch-making event and the DPRK is firmly determined to consolidate and develop the DPRK-China friendship.

    The events marking the China-DPRK Friendship Year have effectively promoted the friendship and trust between the two peoples, he said.

    The DPRK is ready to make joint efforts with China to further the friendly, cooperative relations, he said.

    During the celebration, the leaders watched the grand gymnastic and artistic performance "Arirang" presented by DPRK artists.