China would like to work with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in expanding all-round cooperation and boost bilateral ties, said a visiting Chinese vice premier in Pyongyang on Sunday.

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang made the remarks while meeting the DPRK's Premier Choe Yong Rim at Yanggakdo International Hotel of Pyongyang.

Zhang is heading a Chinese official delegation to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the China-DPRK treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance.

Over the recent years, the two sides have witnessed frequent high level exchanges and vigorous cooperation in various sectors. The two nations have also maintained close coordination in international and regional affairs, Zhang said.

He said it has been the steadfast policy of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government to develop the traditional friendship and implement major consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries.

Economic development and improving people's livelihood are two common challenges facing both China and the DPRK, said Zhang, adding that China would like to join the DPRK to maintain a steady trade expansion and to promote investment and cooperation.

Choe Yong Rim appreciated China's assistance for supporting social and economic development in the DPRK and said both sides should continue boosting cooperation in all fields.

Zhang arrived in Pyongyang earlier in the day. He also visited the Kumsusan Memorial Palace and paid tribute to the late DPRK President Kim Il Sung.

(Xinhua News Agency July 10, 2011)