BEIJING, Dec. 17 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence Sunday to new Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah over the passing of Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people as well as in his own name, Xi expressed deep condolences over the passing of Sheikh Nawaf and extended sincere sympathies to his family and the Kuwaiti people.

In his message, Xi said that Sheikh Nawaf was respected and loved by the Kuwaiti people and had made positive contributions to the development of China-Kuwait relations.

Noting that the passing of Sheikh Nawaf is a great loss to the Kuwaiti people, Xi said the Chinese people have also lost a dear friend.

The Chinese government and the Chinese people cherish the friendship between the two countries, Xi said, adding he is confident that with joint efforts from both sides, the China-Kuwait strategic partnership will see steadfast consolidation and development.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a message of condolence to Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah over the passing of Sheikh Nawaf, expressing deep condolences to the Kuwaiti government and sincere sympathies to the late emir's family.