The message said:

I, on behalf of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese government and people and on my own behalf, extend heartfelt greetings and warm wishes to you and, through you, to the Workers' Party of Korea and the Korean government and people on the occasion of the New Year 2009.

Availing myself of this opportunity I, together with you, declare the formal start of "year of China-DPRK friendship" and extend warm congratulations to you on it.

China and the DPRK are friendly neighbors linked by the same mountain and rivers and the peoples of the two countries have deep-rooted and close traditional friendship.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Over the past six decades, the Sino-Korean friendly and cooperative relations have been steadily strengthened and developed despite many ordeals of history by the joint efforts of both sides.

Frequent visits at different levels have been conducted, brisk cooperation made in all domains, and excellent coordination and cooperation maintained in solving international and regional issues between the two sides.

All the facts prove that development of the Sino-Korean friendly and cooperative relations conforms with the basic interests and common desire of the peoples of the two countries and it has made positive contribution to keeping regional peace and stability.

The "year of China-DPRK friendship" symbolizes the continuous development of the bilateral relations.

In this significant year, the Chinese side, together with the DPRK side, will hold colorful events to boost friendship, promote exchanges and intensify cooperation and thus jointly bring about more beautiful tomorrow of the Sino-Korean friendly and cooperative relations.

I wish for prosperity of your country and happiness of its people.

I wish for perfect success of the "year of China-DPRK friendship."