President Xi Jinping extended condolences to Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday over the passing of Namibia's founding leader Sam Nujoma, highlighting the traditional friendship between China and the African country.

Nujoma served as Namibia's first president for 15 years, from 1990 to 2005. Mbumba announced on Sunday that Nujoma died of an illness on Saturday night. He was 95.

In his message, Xi, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, expressed deep condolences over the passing of Nujoma and extended sincere sympathy to the family of Nujoma, and the Namibian government and people.

Xi highlighted the significant contributions of Nujoma, describing him as a veteran African statesman and revolutionary who led the Namibian people in their pursuit and realization of national independence and liberation, as well as in exploring a development path suited to Namibia's national conditions.

Nujoma maintained a steadfast friendship with China during his lifetime, actively promoting the traditional friendship between China and Namibia, as well as cooperation between China and Africa, Xi said.

His passing represents a great loss for the people of Namibia, and the Chinese people have also lost an old and dear friend, Xi said.

Xi emphasized that the Chinese government and people cherish the traditional friendship with Namibia, and he expressed his confidence that with joint endeavors, the China-Namibia comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation will witness even greater development in the future.

caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn