China wishes Belarusian new government success

China on Monday wished the new government of Belarus success on its national economic and social development.

"China believes that the new government of Belarus will score more successes on economic and social development under the leadership of President Alexander Lukashenko," said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a daily press briefing.

Lukashenko on Saturday sacked Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich, who had been in office since December 2010, and appointed his chief of staff, Andrei Kobyakov, as the new head of government.

He also dismissed the head of the central bank and several other top officials, including the economy and industry ministers.

Calling Belarus "a country with traditional friendship with China and a comprehensive strategic partner," Hua said China will support the Belarusian people in choosing a development path based on their own will.

China will continue to deepen bilateral cooperation with Belarus and intensify coordination on international and regional affairs to safeguard regional peace and stability and benefit both countries and both peoples.

Lukashenko said his decision is aimed at bolstering the economy, which is under looming impact from the economic problems in Russia and the crash of the ruble.

Presidential elections in Belarus are slated for next year.

Lukashenko, who has ruled Belarus since 1994, is expected to seek a fifth term in office.