BEIJING, Oct. 9 -- Chinese top legislator Li Zhanshu on Wednesday called on people from all walks of life in China and Russia to join hands and make new contributions to the development of bilateral relations in the new era.

The remarks came as Li attended a reception marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia and the China-Russia Friendship Association at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Hailing the bilateral relations and friendship between the two peoples, Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, said the China-Russia relationship has become a model for major countries and neighboring countries featuring mutual trust and coordination, and has injected positive energy into safeguarding world peace and international order.

Andrey Denisov, Russian ambassador to China, said Russia is ready to work with China to take the opportunity of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties to promote Russia-China relations for new achievements.