BEIJING, Oct. 20 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday congratulated Jacinda Ardern on being elected prime minister of New Zealand.

In the message, Li said that in the past 45 years since China and New Zealand established diplomatic relations, the two countries, with joint efforts, have achieved leapfrog development in bilateral ties, brought huge benefits to the two peoples and greatly promoted peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Chinese premier said he is looking forward to working with Ardern to enhance dialogue and communication, expand pragmatic cooperation, further develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and bring greater benefits to the two peoples based on the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.