BEIJING, July 27 (Xinhua) -- China has closely watched Pakistan's general election and hopes for a smooth political transition in the country, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Friday.

Imran Khan, chairman of the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf party, claimed victory in the election on Thursday. He spoke highly of relations with China during a television address, noting that Pakistan's new government would continue to develop friendly exchanges and cooperation with China.

"China has kept an eye on the general election of Pakistan and sincerely hopes the country can realize a smooth political transition and keep stability for better development," spokesperson Geng Shuang said at a regular press conference.

"Imran Khan has reiterated that relations with China are the footstone of Pakistan's foreign policy that 'no matter which party takes office, a friendly policy towards China will not be changed.'"

In his address Khan said that China had given a chance to Pakistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and Pakistan could learn from China on such areas as reducing poverty and anti-corruption.

"China has noticed the positive remarks by Imran Khan and believes people from all walks of life in Pakistan are firm supporters of the China-Pakistan friendly relationship," Geng said. "The China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership will not be shaken despite how the situation changes."