Guo Yezhou, vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, speaks during a news conference at the press center of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Beijing, Oct 21, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

Both Beijing and Pyongyang are aware of the importance of protecting their good relations, a senior official of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee said on Saturday.

"China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are neighbors. Both sides know that maintaining, developing and consolidating the friendly and cooperative China-DPRK relations is not only in the best interests of both sides but also bears great significance in regional peace and stability," said Guo Yezhou, vice-minister of the department.

He made the remarks at a news conference held on the sidelines of the ongoing 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.

Guo said the communication between the two ruling parties plays an important role in enhancing bilateral relations of the two countries.

"Our Party and the Workers' Party of Korea have the tradition of friendly exchanges," he said.

"As for when and at what level will the two sides carry out personnel exchanges depends on the needs and convenience of both sides."