Chinese president awarded Kyrgyzstan's highest medal

Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov on Thursday awarded his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping the Manas Order of the First Degree, the highest national prize of the central Asian nation.

Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov (R) awards his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping the Manas Order of the First Degree, the highest national prize of the central Asian nation, in Bishkek on Thursday, June 13, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua]

Speaking at a ceremony held in the state guest house in Bishkek, Jeenbekov said he appreciates Xi's special contributions to the development of the Kyrgyzstan-China comprehensive strategic partnership.

He said his country will never forget China's long-running support and assistance, and believes that Xi's visit this time will open up a new chapter of bilateral ties between the two countries.

In response, Xi said the medal has fully demonstrated the Kyrgyz people's profound friendship towards the Chinese people, adding that he values it very much.

Xi said he is ready to join hands with Jeenbekov to deepen the traditional friendship of the two countries, and to push forward the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership for new achievements, so as to better benefit the two peoples.

The Chinese president arrived in Bishkek on Wednesday for a state visit to Kyrgyzstan and the 19th Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.