Chinese President Xi Jinping called for jointly advancing China-Turkmenistan relations when meeting with the visiting National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in Beijing on Wednesday.

During their meeting, Xi extended a warm welcome to Berdimuhamedov, who arrived in the Chinese capital on the previous day to begin a three-day goodwill visit, and noted the special significance this year holds to both countries.

"This year is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese traditional calendar, and also the year of 'the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses' in Turkmenistan. At the beginning of this Year of the Horse, I am willing to map out plans for cooperation with you to drive China-Turkmenistan relations forward like an Akhal-Teke horse, galloping relentlessly and always leading the way," Xi said.

The Akhal-Teke is a rare horse breed famed for its speed and endurance and is considered a national treasure of Turkmenistan.