BEIJING, Sept. 14 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Swiss counterpart Simonetta Sommaruga Monday exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between their countries.

Xi noted that Switzerland was among the first Western countries to forge diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China.

The vigorous bilateral relations have been constantly enhanced over the past 65 years and remarkable achievements have been scored in pragmatic cooperation in various areas, Xi said.

China attaches great importance to the development of its friendly relations with Switzerland, said Xi, who expressed the belief that greater progress will be made with joint efforts for the benefits of the two countries and two peoples.

In her message, Sommaruga said the partnership between the two countries has grown more close, profound and comprehensive and cooperation between the two sides has been fruitful.

Switzerland also attaches great importance to the two countries' cooperation, Sommaruga said, adding that she believes bilateral relations will be further strengthened. She also said she hopes that China and Switzerland can join hands to face future challenges.