Premier Li Keqiang sent a congratulatory message on Friday to Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill on his reelection as head of government of the South Pacific country.

O'Neill, who visited Beijing in July last year and was received by the premier, was reelected on Aug 2 for another five-year term.

In the congratulatory message, Li said China-Papua New Guinea relations have accomplished significant developments since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976.

The two countries have shown politically mutual respect, seen mutually beneficial economic cooperation, and supported each other in multilateral affairs, he said.

The development of China-Papua New Guinea ties has created tangible interests to both peoples, and has also promoted the stability and prosperity of the region of Pacific island nations, Li said.

Li also said he is looking forward to working with O'Neill to deepen China-Papua New Guinea exchanges and cooperation in various fields and further the development of the strategic partnership between the two countries, which will better serve the interest of both peoples.