BEIJING, May 9 (Xinhua) -- China congratulated Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as the new pope, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Friday.

Lin made the remarks at a regular press briefing in responding to a query about the new pope.

China hoped that under the leadership of the new pope, the Vatican will continue to have dialogue with China in a constructive spirit, have in-depth communication on international issues of mutual interest, jointly advance the continuous improvement of the China-Vatican relations and make contributions to world peace, stability, development and prosperity, Lin added. ■