China congratulated Nicolas Maduro on Monday for his victory in Venezuela's presidential election.

"We have noticed the results of the Venezuelan presidential election. We respect the choice of the Venezuelan people and congratulate Maduro on winning the election," said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying.

Hua said relations between China and Venezuela had been growing since their diplomatic relations were established 39 years ago.

"We are ready to work with Venezuela to continue to push forward friendly and cooperative relations to better benefit the people of the two countries," Hua said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Maduro and said he expected good relations to continue with Venezuela, where Moscow has significant oil investments.

"Putin expressed confidence that under Maduro's leadership, Venezuela will further strengthen its strategic partnership with Russia," the Kremlin said.

Some other foreign leaders have also congratulated Maduro and urged respect for the officially announced results.

"Latin America is a continent that is freeing itself on the basis of elections," said Bolivian President Evo Morales. "Latin America is winning on the basis of the conscience of its people, and election results are respected here."

Xinhua - AFP -Reuters

(China Daily 04/16/2013 page12)