BEIJING — Leaders of foreign countries and international organizations have sent a multitude of congratulatory messages to General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President Xi Jinping to convey their best wishes on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The following is an edited summary of some of these messages.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said his country hopes to maintain and expand its partnership with China, which is not just in line with the two countries' interests, but also conducive to boosting bilateral cooperation to cope with global challenges. He added that he looks forward to more fruitful results in bilateral relations.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella said that on the occasion of the PRC's 70th founding anniversary, he wishes the friendly Chinese people a prosperous future.

Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud said he extends to Xi the sincerest congratulations and best regards on behalf of the Saudi government and people as well as in his own name, and wishes the friendly Chinese government and people continuous progress and development.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that in merely 70 years, China, as a developing country, has scored remarkable achievements and become a world leader in multiple fields, receiving broad recognition across the globe, especially from developing countries.

He added that Xi's outstanding charisma and leadership will continue to guide China to play a leading role in the world and exert a positive influence on the international community.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari said that with political unity and stability, extraordinary development achievements, a strong leadership and devoted people, the PRC has in the past 70 years become a powerful country that is profoundly enlightening to the world. He added that he and many others are deeply delighted and encouraged.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said the founding of the PRC 70 years ago placed China on a great journey. He noted that since the launch of its reform and opening-up policy, especially under the leadership of Xi, China has made great achievements in development and become the world's second largest economy, lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty.

The Kenyan side, he added, highly appreciates China's commitments to safeguarding world peace and security, supporting the rules-based international order, and building a community with a shared future for mankind.