Beijing, July 11: Amid the stalemate over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme, Beijing and Pyongyang have jointly celebrated on a low key the 42nd anniversary of the signing of the treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance between the two allies. A reception was held here yesterday to mark the 42nd anniversary of the major bilateral pact, the official Xinhua news agency reported.

President of the Chinese People's Association for friendship with foreign countries, Chen Haosu, addressed the reception saying the treaty had withstood the test of time since it was signed 42 years ago.

"Cementing bilateral ties under current circumstances was not only in the basic interests of both peoples, but benefits peace and stability in the Korean peninsula, Northeast Asia and the world at large," Chen was quoted as saying. North Korea's ambassador to China Choe Jin Su said the treaty has boosted friendly relations between the two nations.

He expressed his belief that North Korea-China ties would make even greater progress in the new century.

However, the non-appearance of any top-level Chinese leaders or foreign ministry officials at the event is surprising, diplomatic sources noted.

Bureau Report