by Xinhua writer Liu Yue-hua

    DAMASCUS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The friendship between China and Syria is not "empty words," which has witnessed constant supports from both countries on important issues of mutual concerned, Chinese ambassador to Syria Li Huaxin told Xinhua in Damascus on Monday.

    As a long-time friend of China, Syria fully understands and firmly supports China's efforts on defending sovereignty, keeping territory integrity and maintaining social stability, Li said in an interview with Xinhua on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

    Li reiterated that China supports Syria's commitment to achieving a just and comprehensive peace based on the relevant UN resolutions, particularly reclaiming the occupied Golan Heights.

    The relationship and cooperation between the two countries have grown steadily since China and Syria established diplomatic relations in 1956, which has been promoted to a new level by the visit of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to China in 2004, said Li.

    The bilateral trade volume has increased rapidly in recent years, in 2008 it reached 2.27 billion U.S. dollars. A large number of Chinese companies have successfully expanded their business in Syria.

    "Nowadays, 'made in China' has been a part of Syrian people's life," said the ambassador, "from socks, clothes, household appliances, mobile phone to cars, you can find all kinds of Chinese products everywhere in Syria."

    "My colleagues and I often meet Syrian people who 'show off' Chinese products they bought and hail 'China, Good' with thumb up."

    The Syrian government also appreciates the great achievements of China in the past 30 years' reform and opening up, and expresses its willingness to learn and borrow experience from China, Li added.

    Syrian government and academic institutions are strengthening researches on China's mode of development and actively exchanging points of view with visiting Chinese delegations and think tanks.

    "It is worthy of note that the ruling Baath party of Syria sends two official delegations to visit China annually in recent years to systematically learn the experience of Communist Party of China on governing the country and developing economy at all levels." Li said.

    "Although thousands of miles away from our motherland, all overseas Chinese are devoted to China's development and prosperity," said Li, adding "we are proud of our country and being Chinese."

Special Report: 60th Anniversary of Founding of PRC