BEIJING, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei on Monday said that China congratulates Hery Rajaonarimapianina's election as Madagascar's new president.

Hong made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on the validation of the final results of Madagascar's presidential election.

Hery Rajaonarimampianina was declared by Madagascar's special electoral court on last Friday winner of the presidential run-off held on Dec. 20 with 53.49 percent of votes against 46.51 of his opponent Jean Louis Robinson.

Hong said China hopes Madagascar can end its political crisis through this election and will keep lasting stability and development.

China will continue to play a constructive role in the process of resolving Madagascar's political ills. An early end to the crisis will create favorable conditions for China and Madagascar to expand cooperation in various fields, Hong said.

"China attaches importance to bilateral ties," Hong said, adding that China would like to make joint efforts with Madagascar to promote friendly cooperation, which benefits the people in the two countries.