Chinese President Hu Jintao and Norwegian King Harald V exchanged greetings Tuesday to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In the past five decades, the relations between China and Norway have been developing smoothly, bilateral exchanges at all levels have been increasing, and mutual trust and understanding has been deepening, Hu said in his message to King Harald V.

The two countries have made remarkable achievements in bilateral cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, technology and culture, the Chinese president added.

Under the new circumstances, it is in the common interests of both sides to further expand and intensify mutually beneficial cooperation, Hu said.

King Harald V said in his congratulatory telegram to Hu that the friendly relations and cooperation between Norway and China are based on mutual respect and benefit.

Individuals and institutions in various fields of the two countries have maintained close and comprehensive relations, he said.

The king expressed his confidence that bilateral ties will continue to develop.

(Xinhua News Agency October 5, 2004)