BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday sent a congratulatory message to his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri to mark the 200th anniversary of Argentina's independence.

In the message, Xi said that since the realization of national independence in 1816, the Argentine people have carried forward their national spirit, and have actively made exploration for a path of development meeting their own national realities, promoting sustained economic and social development.

The Chinese side extends congratulations therefor, and believes that Argentina will make even greater success in the cause of national construction, Xi noted.

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Argentina relations, and I am willing to work with you to push forward the China-Argentina comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership constantly, to bring more benefits to the two countries and the two peoples," Xi said.