UN chief congratulates Xi Jinping on election as President of China

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated Xi Jinping on his election as President of the People's Republic of China by the National People's Congress.

In a letter he sent today to Mr. Xi, Mr. Ban wished the new President "every success in leading his country towards making the 'Chinese Dream' a reality and for achieving well-being for its entire people," his spokesperson said in a statement.

According to media reports, delegates to the National People's Congress in Beijing voted 2,952 to 1, with three abstentions, in favour of Mr. Xi to succeed Hu Jintao.

Prior to being elected as President, Mr. Xi was the leader of the Chinese Communist Party and commander of the military.

In today's statement, his spokesperson said that Mr. Ban noted China's strong support for the United Nations and multilateralism. He added that Mr. Ban welcomed the growing active and constructive role China is playing in world affairs.

"The Secretary-General noted that China's leading and pioneering role was indispensable for the success of the international community in its common quest to address the global challenges of building durable peace, including in Northeast Asia, ensuring respect for human rights, attaining sustainable development and combating the effects of climate change," the spokesperson said.