President Xi Jinping on May 9 replied in a verbal message to Kim Jong-un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on May 9, after Kim sent a verbal message Thursday congratulating China's achievements in containing the COVID-19 pandemic.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that he was pleased to receive a warm and friendly verbal message from Kim, also chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of DPRK.

Saying that the epidemic prevention and control work in China has achieved results with major strategic significance after arduous efforts, Xi said he was also concerned about the COVID-19 control work in DPRK and the health of DPRK people.

Beijing stands ready to strengthen anti-epidemic cooperation with Pyongyang and provide support within its ability according to Pyongyang's needs, he said.