BEIJING, Oct. 23 -- Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao and visiting Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete attended a reception in Beijing on Thursday celebrating the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties.

Addressing the reception, Li said the two peoples have supported each other since the forging of diplomatic ties, adding both countries had become good all-weather friends.

China hopes to work closely with Tanzania to implement the important consensus reached by state leaders of both countries, to enhance substantial cooperation in all areas and boost greater progress of bilateral all-round cooperative partnership, Li said.

Hailing Tanzania-China long-lasting friendship, Kikwete said his country expects to further facilitate cooperation with China in diversified fields.

Kikwete is on a state visit to China from Oct. 21-26 at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.