World leaders congratulate Xi on election as CPC chief (6)

Sergei Stanishev, president of the Party of European Socialists, said in his message, "I would like to congratulate you on your appointment as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China at the 18th National Party Congress."

"I believe that our close cooperation can advance the process of political, social and economic reform, both in China and Europe," he said.

"We have succeeded in establishing a framework which ensures an effective bilateral political interaction, including regular strategic exchanges and substantial cooperation in a number of areas," he said, adding that "in the next five years, I am confident we can take our common agenda even-further."

Hannes Swoboda, president of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, said: "Please accept my warm congratulations on your election and my best wishes for your success as you prepare to take up the responsibilities and chanllenges of your high office as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party ..."

"I am convinced that under your leadership, the CPC will accomplish new achievements on the path to building a prosperous and modern country and increase China's standing in the international arena," he said.