Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met in Beijing with top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Il.

Wen, also member of the Political Bureau Standing Committee of CPC Central Committee, said it is a steadfast principle of the CPC and the Chinese government to consolidate and develop China-DPRK friendship, which is in the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples.

Wen said the two countries maintained frequent high-level exchanges in recent years. While enhancing strategic coordination, both sides boosted substantial cooperation in trade and other areas, which have helped promote economic development and improve people's lives in the two countries.

China is ready to make joint efforts with the DPRK to give full play to various bilateral working mechanisms, further encourage the initiatives of localities and enterprises, and enhance planning and coordination, in an effort to boost the win-win cooperation to a higher level, Wen said.

Kim, who was on his third China visit since May of last year, said the two countries scored extensive achievements in their trade cooperation in recent years, and took a significant step forward in building a new cross-border bridge over the Yalu River.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between the DPRK and China, Kim said, calling on both countries to take this opportunity to further expand bilateral cooperation in various areas and usher in a new era of full-flourish trade cooperation.