Premier Li Keqiang eyes development of China-Uzbekistan relations in a message of congratulations to Abdulla Aripov, the new prime minister of Uzbekistan, on Dec 15.

In his congratulatory message, Premier Li noted that relations between China and Uzbekistan witness sound development as high-level exchanges are frequent and mutual political trust is enhancing.

The joint efforts made by the two countries on the Belt and Road Initiative have harvested initial achievements, he added.

This year, China and Uzbekistan established a comprehensive strategic partnership, laying solid political foundation for bilateral cooperation. The Chinese government continues to pay close attention to the development of China-Uzbekistan relations, according to Premier Li.

“I would like to make joint efforts with you to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in all sectors and push forward the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Uzbekistan,” he said.