BEIJING, June 19 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday congratulated Felipe VI on being crowned King of Spain.

Since China and Spain established diplomatic ties 41 years ago, their relationship has witnessed great advancement, Xi said in a congratulatory message.

Noting that the new king has visited China for multiple times and actively promoted bilateral friendship, Xi said Felipe VI is a good friend of the Chinese people.

The president added that he pays great attention to China-Spain relations and stands ready to work with the new king to further push forward the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.