Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao presented Wednesday the China-India Friendship Contribution Award to several Indians who have contributed to the development of bilateral ties between the two countries.

Wen congratulated the honorees during an award presentation ceremony and expressed his sincere gratitude and greetings to the Indian people in all walks of life who have made great efforts in promoting the friendship between China and India.

Wen said that the exchanges between the two countries have a long history, and that the Chinese people have received precious support from their Indian counterpart in their striving for national liberation.

The continuous development of China-India relations cannot be achieved without the efforts by Indian friends, the premier said.

Wen said China is a nation that values friendship. The Chinese government and people will never forget those who have contributed greatly to the cause of China-India friendship.

He pointed out that the year 2010 marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India.

"I sincerely hope that the people of all walks of life of the two countries will join hands and make new contributions to pushing forward China-Indian friendly cooperative relations," said the Chinese premier.

The honorees thanked the Chinese government and people for their trust and encouragement, and expressed their willingness to shoulder the historic responsibility to win more popularity for China-India friendship.

Wen arrived here earlier Wednesday for a three-day official visit at the invitation of his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh.

The Chinese premier was scheduled for talks with Singh on Thursday morning on bilateral ties and international and regional issues of common concern. He will also attend events marking the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-India diplomatic ties, and meet with Indian people from various circles, before concluding his tour on Friday.