Damascus, September 30 (RHC)-- China reiterated support for Syria's sovereignty and unity on Saturday, promising to continue developing strong economic and political relations in the years to come.

China stands by “Syria's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity,” and rejects “any attempt to divide it,” Syrian news agency SANA reported China's Ambassador to Syria, Qi Qianjin as saying.

The ambassador said that “only the Syrian people have the right to determine their future... not any other country.”

The Chinese diplomat also said that Syria's decision to look “toward the east” in building its international ties is a “wise policy,” and that he looks forward to developing and deepening political, economic, educational, and strategic relationships.

China and Syria are already major trade partners, with economic ties remaining consistent through the years of the crisis and civil war against foreign-backed forces, and transnational terror groups such as the Islamic State group.

Faced with hostility from western governments, particularly the United States, Syria has relied on its close ties with countries in the Eastern hemisphere, particularly, Russia, Iran, and China, for economic, political, and military support.