BEIJING, March 1 -- President Xi Jinping has said he is looking forward to increased people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States as the two sides kick off a major tourism promotion.

In a message to a ceremony launching the "China-U.S. Tourism Year" in Beijing on Monday, Xi said the relationship between the two countries since they forged diplomatic ties has not only benefited China and the United States, but also promoted peace, stability and prosperity worldwide.

The president said he hopes the two sides will take advantage of the tourism year, noting both China and the United States boast colorful culture and beautiful scenery, and their people share strong aspirations to get to know each other more deeply.

The China-U.S. Tourism Year was announced last September after Xi's state visit to the United States.