BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday offered his condolences over the death of Jimmy Carter, saying the former US president was a driving force behind the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In his message, Xi called Carter a promoter and decision-maker in establishing Sino-US diplomatic relations, noting that the late US leader had long contributed to the development of bilateral ties, as well as the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, died on Sunday at the age of 100, according to the Carter Center.

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

The Chinese leader said that he deeply regrets the former president's passing.

Noting that the China-US relationship is one of the most important bilateral ties in the world, he said China is ready to work with the US side to focus on the fundamental interests of their people and meet the common expectations of the international community, and advance China-US relations along the right track of sound, stable and sustainable development.