China on Friday congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election to head the Catholic Church, saying Beijing hopes to continue "constructive dialogue" with the Vatican.

"It is hoped that under the new pope's leadership, the Vatican will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with China and conduct in-depth communication on international issues of mutual concern," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.

Lin said he hopes China and the Vatican could "jointly promote continued improvement of relations and contribute to world peace, stability and development prosperity."

The Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and the Bishops' Conference of Catholic Church in China also congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as the new pope. (AFP/Xinhua)