China congratulates Morsi on Egyptian election victory

China on Monday congratulated Mohamed Morsi on his recent victory in the Egyptian presidential election, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular press briefing.

"China respects the choice of the Egyptian people. The Chinese side believes Egypt will make more progress in national construction under President Morsi's leadership," Hong said.

Hong said China and Egypt have enjoyed a "long history of friendship." China is willing to make joint efforts with the Egyptian side to deepen their friendship and boost bilateral cooperation, Hong said.

Morsi, the Muslim Brotherhood's candidate, took 51.73 percent of the vote in a run-off round of voting, defeating his rival Ahmed Shafiq.