Premier Wen Jiabao sent a congratulatory message on Thursday to Xanana Gusmao on his election as the prime minister of Timor-Leste.

Wen said in his message that China and Timor-Leste are friendly neighbors and the Chinese government values the friendly relations and cooperation it has with the country.

Wen said he hoped to work with Gusmao to push forward the development of bilateral exchanges and improve their cooperation in various fields.

Xanana Gusmao was sworn in as Timor Leste's new prime minister on Wednesday.

(Xinhua News Agency August 9, 2007)