President Jiang Zemin expressed his heartfelt congratulations Saturday to Vojislav Kostunica for his election as the Yugoslav president.

In a congratulation message, Jiang wished Kostunica a smooth job in his new lofty position and remarkable achievements in his endeavors towards the stability and prosperity of Yugoslavia and a happier life for its people.

Jiang said China treasures very much its traditional friendship and cooperation with Yugoslavia, which are based on the principles including equality, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and fully accord with their peoples' fundamental interests.

The Chinese president said he wants to join hands with Kostunica in pushing forward the bilateral friendly relations of cooperation in all areas.

(People’s Daily 10/08/2000)