BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a congratulatory message to his Indian counterpart, Droupadi Murmu, on India's 77th Republic Day.

Xi highlighted that over the past year, China-India relations have continued to improve and develop, which aligns with the fundamental interests of both countries and their people, and is of great significance for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity.

Xi emphasized that China has always believed that being good neighbors, friends and partners who help each other succeed, and achieving the "dragon and the elephant dancing together," is the right choice for both China and India.

ALSO READ: Return of India-China flights hailed

He expressed hope that both sides will adhere to the important consensus that China and India are "partners for cooperation and opportunities for development," strengthen strategic communication, expand exchanges and cooperation, address each other's concerns, and promote the healthy and stable development of China-India relations.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a congratulatory message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.