China congratulates Mugabe on presidential election win

China has congratulated Robert Mugabe on his reelection as Zimbabwean president and his Zanu-PF party's election victory, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Thursday.

Hong said President Xi Jinping has sent a congratulatory message to Mugabe.

"As a good friend, China hopes Zimbabwe will use the election as an opportunity to make greater progress in national rejuvenation and development," Hong said.

He added that China will firmly support the African nation's efforts in safeguarding national stability and development.