BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolence to Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou over the passing of former Greek President Karolos Papoulias.

Expressing deep condolences on behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people, Xi said that Papoulias was an extraordinary politician and leader of Greece, and also an old friend of the Chinese people.

Papoulias had long been committed to deepening the China-Greece friendship, actively promoted bilateral practical cooperation in various fields and firmly supported Beijing in hosting the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, making important contributions to the development of the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi said.

Xi added that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Greece relations, and is ready to work with Sakellaropoulou to deepen the traditional friendship between the two countries and push for new achievements in bilateral cooperation in all areas to benefit both countries and their people.