BEIJING — Leaders of foreign countries and international organizations have sent congratulatory messages to 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.

Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita said China has been playing a positive international role in safeguarding peace, fairness, and justice, acting steadfastly to maintain the international order, and providing selfless and practical help to developing countries.

Gambian President Adama Barrow said Gambia highly values its brotherhood with China, defined by friendship, solidarity, and cooperation, and that he believes that bilateral relations will further strengthen and continuously benefit the peoples of the two countries.

Angolan President Joao Lourenco said his country highly appreciates the constructive role China plays in international affairs, adding that China is not only a factor for peace and stability in the world but also a driver of progress and development.

Botswana's President Mokgweetsi Masisi said China's remarkable economic and social development over the past 70 years are admirable, adding that China has become a major source of innovation and scientific discovery, which have not only raised living standards among the Chinese, but benefited all humanity.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said China well deserves its global status today as a major power.

In his message, Spanish King Felipe VI wished President Xi and the Chinese people happiness and well-being.

Dutch King Willem-Alexander said he extends his warmest congratulations and best wishes to President Xi.

Belgian King Philippe said Belgium highly values its profound friendship and close relations with China, and that he sincerely wishes President Xi and all the Chinese people happiness and well-being.

Danish Queen Margrethe II said she deeply appreciates the long-term, strong and steady development of Denmark-China relations.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said the friendship, mutual trust and cooperation between Portugal and China continue to grow, adding that he is confident that both sides will consistently enrich their relationship.