TEHRAN, May 28 (MNA) – On Friday, China congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for winning a fourth term in the May 26 election.

The Syrian parliament announced on Thursday that Assad won Wednesday's election with over 95% of the votes.

"China and Syria are traditional good friends," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a regular press briefing in Beijing on Friday, as he extended the Asian giant's well-wishes to Assad.

"China firmly supports Syria in the safeguarding of its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity," he added.

RHM/PR