The Portuguese post office, CTT, has issued a set of two commemorative stamps and a first-day cover to mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and Portugal, Xinhua reports.

The government-run news agency says the stamps show two tea sets with traditional Chinese and Portuguese cultural elements, illustrating the long and deep friendship between China and Portugal.

The report quotes CTT Chief Executive Francisco de Lacerda as saying Sino-Portuguese mutual respect and friendship in various fields deserves to be celebrated with the new issue of stamps.

The issue will facilitate communication and friendship between the people of China and Portugal, Xinhua quotes Chinese Ambassador to Portugal Cai Run as saying.