China expressed deep, profound condolences over the death of Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Friday.

Quang died on Friday morning in a hospital in Hanoi at the age of 61, after a long period of illness.

Speaking at a regular press conference in Beijing, Geng said Quang was an outstanding leader of the party and country of Vietnam, and made significant contribution to Vietnam’s national development as well as reform and opening-up.

Quang also greatly contributed to deepening the China-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership, he said.