In his message to Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Chinese President Jiang Zemin, on behalf of the Chinese people and in his own name, extended warm congratulations and beautiful wishes to the Ugandan people.

Jiang said a profound traditional relationship exists between China and Uganda and bilateral ties of friendship and cooperation have made great achievements in the past 40 years.

The Chinese leader also said bilateral relations have entered anew phase of sustainable and healthy development after Museveni took office, with frequent top-level contacts, mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and further deepening of understanding and closer friendship between the two peoples.

China will work together with Uganda to further promote the friendly cooperation in various fields, Jiang said.

In his message, Museveni said the last 40 years have seen a remarkable development of a truly mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, a relationship that has been marked by close cooperation in various areas of endeavor.

Uganda is deeply satisfied and appreciative of the assistance and support that China has extended to it over the years in the political, economic and social sectors, Museveni added.

Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji also sent a congratulatory message to his Ugandan counterpart, Apolo Nsibambi, saying the two countries have achieved extensive and efficient cooperation in bilateral relations and international affairs in the 40 years.

Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan and his Ugandan counterpart also exchanged congratulatory messages on the occasion.

(People's Daily October 18, 2002)