Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday congratulated Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt on assuming office as prime minister of the Independent State of Samoa.

In his message, Li said Samoa was one of the first Pacific Island countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China.

Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China-Samoa relations have seen healthy, steady and sustained development, enhancing the well-being of the people in both countries, Li said.

China appreciates that Laaulialemalietoa has long been committed to promoting Samoa's friendship with China and firmly upholds the one-China principle, said Li.

Li said he stands ready to make joint efforts with Laaulialemalietoa to enhance mutual political trust, expand friendly exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and take the China-Samoa comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights, bringing more benefits to the two peoples.