BEIJING, April 28 -- China on Tuesday congratulated Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on his election to a new term in office and vowed to promote new progress in China-Sudan cooperation.

"As a good friend of Sudan, China respects the Sudanese people's choice and will firmly support Sudan's efforts in maintaining stability, developing its economy and improving people's livelihood," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei at a regular press briefing.

Al-Bashir was re-elected as Sudanese president after winning 94.5 percent of the vote in the country's presidential election, the Sudan National Elections Commission said on Monday.