North Korea's young, new leader is getting a show of support from neighboring China.

Chinese President Hu Jintao sent Kim Jong Un a congratulatory message, lauding Mr. Kim's appointment as North Korea's supreme military commander.

The message, published on an official Chinese government website, said their is a deep tradition of friendship between the two nations. It also said that relationship is sure to strengthen.

Pyongyang's relationship with Beijing is crucial as North Korea is dependent on trade and aid from China.