The press center of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China holds a news conference on the united front work and the external work of the CPC, in Beijing, Oct 21, 2017. Executive Vice-Minister Zhang Yijiong (second from left) and Vice-Minister Ran Wanxiang (right) of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, and Guo Yezhou (second from right), vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, attended the conference. [Photo/Xinhua]

Both Beijing and Pyongyang are aware of the importance of protecting their good relations, a senior official of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee said on Saturday.

"China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are neighbors. Both sides know that maintaining, developing and consolidating the friendly and cooperative China-DPRK relations is not only in the best interests of both sides but also bears great significance in regional peace and stability," said Guo Yezhou, vice-minister of the department.

He made the remarks at a news conference held on the sidelines of the ongoing 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.

Guo said the communication between the two ruling parties plays an important role in enhancing bilateral relations of the two countries.

"Our Party and the Workers' Party of Korea have the tradition of friendly exchanges," he said.

"As for when and at what level will the two sides carry out personnel exchanges depends on the needs and convenience of both sides."