BEIJING -- China expressed confidence in a stronger relationship with Australia as Malcolm Turnbull was sworn in as Australia's new prime minister on Tuesday.
Malcolm Turnbull, former Communications Minister, defeated Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a ruling Liberal Party's leadership ballot two years after he was elected.
Turnbull, 60, was a former journalist, high-profile banker and lawyer. He is a strong supporter of the Australia-China Free Trade Agreement, which concluded negotiations in November 2014.
"China congratulates Mr. Turnbull on becoming prime minister," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular news briefing.
He said China-Australia relations will make new progress and better benefit the people of the two countries with joint efforts between the two governments.
Hong also expressed appreciation for Tony Abbott's contribution to advancing bilateral ties.
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