Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Wang Wenbin declined to congratulate Joe Biden on his announced victory in the US presidential election, speaking at a news conference in Beijing on Monday.

"We note that Mr Biden announced that he had been successfully elected. We understand that the United States election's final result will be determined in accordance with United States laws and procedures," said Wang.

He also commented on what the outcome of the elections will mean for both countries going forward.

"Regarding views on China-US relations, we have always advocated that China and the United States should strengthen communication and dialogue, manage differences based on mutual respect, expand cooperation based on mutual benefit, and promote the healthy and stable development of China-US relations," said Wang.

Leaders of many Western countries congratulated Joe Biden after he was projected to win the election.

*SOUNDBITES*

SOT, Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of Chinese MOFA (Mandarin): "We note that Mr Biden announced that he had been successfully elected. We understand that the United States election's final result will be determined in accordance with United States laws and procedures."

SOT, Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of Chinese MOFA (Mandarin): "On the question of China's position you mentioned, we will deal with it in accordance with international practice."

SOT, Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of Chinese MOFA (Mandarin): "Regarding views on China-US relations, we have always advocated that China and the United States should strengthen communication and dialogue, manage differences based on mutual respect, expand cooperation based on mutual benefit, and promote the healthy and stable development of China-US relations."

SOT, Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of China MOFA (Mandarin): "We are unswervingly determined to safeguard the development of national sovereignty and security interests. We have always maintained that China and the United States should manage and control their differences based on mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs to promote China-US relations' healthy and stable development. It is hoped that the new administration of the United States will go hand in hand with China."