A North Korean broadcaster reports that the Chinese ambassador to North Korea has praised the country for its successful economic and foreign policies.

Pyongyang Broadcasting says that Chinese Ambassador Liu Xiaoming made the remarks at a ceremony to mark the 46th anniversary of a friendship and mutual aid agreement between the two countries.

Ambassador Liu said that North Korea has seen economic growth, improved the lives of its people and smoothened relations with South Korea and other countries this year.

He also noted that Beijing and Pyongyang have further strengthened their friendly ties due to joint efforts by Chinese President Hu Jintao and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il.