BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday extended congratulations to Joao Lourenco on his election as Angolan president.

In his congratulatory message, Xi said that Angola is China's important strategic partner in Africa.

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Angola relations and stand ready to work with you to gain more achievements in advancing the China-Angola strategic partnership, so as to benefit the two countries and two peoples," Xi said.