Chinese vice-premier visits DPRK for bilateral ties, regional peace

PYONGYANG, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice-Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday started an official goodwill visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) with an aim to promote bilateral ties and regional peace.

In a written statement released upon his arrival at the airport, Li said China and the DPRK are friendly neighbors, and that the traditional friendship between the two countries dates back to ancient times.

Under the care of the top leaders of both countries and thanks to concerted efforts of both sides, bilateral relations have been growing continuously and smoothly, he said.

China is ready to work together with the DPRK to continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation between the two countries in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples, Li said.