The Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) held a reception in Beijing Monday to mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Mexico.

The Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress Cheng Siwei, the CPAFFC President Chen Haosu, and the Mexican Ambassador Ismael Sergio Ley Lopez attended the reception.

Chen said that since China and Mexico set up diplomatic ties 30 years ago, bilateral relations of friendship and cooperation have progressed smoothly and they have borne fruit in areas like politics, economy, culture, education, science and technology.

There have also been frequent exchanges of high-level visits and increasing non-governmental contacts, added Chen.

He believes that with joint efforts from both sides, bilateral friendly cooperation and friendship between the two peoples will yield more results in the 21st century.

Sergio Ley said Mexico has always adhered to the "one China" position and he hopes that the two countries will be strategic business partners on the basis of mutual benefit.

(People's Daily February 14, 2002)