World leaders, parties, organizations congratulate Xi on election as CPC chief

BEIJING, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- Congratulations continued to flow in from countries, political parties and friendship organizations around the world to Xi Jinping on his election as general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.p German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her best wishes to Xi in her congratulatory message.

Germany and China have maintained very close and friendly relations for a long time, Merkel said, adding that she looked forward to expanding the close partnership between the two countries in politics, economy and culture.

Salva Kiir Mayardit, chairman of Sudan People Liberation Movement (SPLM) and president of South Sudan, extended his congratulations to Xi on behalf of the people of South Sudan, the SPLM and in his own name.

"I look forward to your continuous endeavors to strengthen the long- lasting bond that exists between our people as well as between SPLM and the Communist Party," he said.

President of Romanian Social Democratic Party (PSD) and Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta said Xi's election was a great event in China's process of promoting modernization and proved the CPC had the wisdom to elect a new generation of leaders to lead the nation to counter new challenges.

Romania appreciates the friendship between the PSD and the CPC, Ponta said, adding that he hopes the two sides will make joint efforts to promote the partnership between the two parties and the friendly cooperation between the two peoples.

Henry Puna, prime minister of the Cook Islands, congratulated Xi on his historic election as new CPC chief and chairman of the CPC Central Military Commission.

"I am confident that under your steadfast leadership, the challenges you outlined in your address will be overcome and China's enormous potential will be realized for the benefit of the Chinese people," he said in a message.

Fiji's Prime Minister J. V. Bainimarama said Xi's election "demonstrates the confidence which the people of China have reposed in the party's foresightedness and able leadership to continue the reform and transformation of your great country."