Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday congratulated Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa after Portugal's former Prime Minister Antonio Guterres was appointed as next UN secretary-general.

"I believe Guterres will keep his commitment to the UN Charter and work with the international community to cope with global challenges, safeguard world peace, promote common development and contribute to world cooperation," Xi said.

In his message, Xi said China and Portugal enjoy a traditional friendship with enhanced political trust and strengthened cooperation in various areas.

China is ready to work with Portugal to push forward the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries, Xi said.