Premier Li congratulates new Australian PM

Australia's conservative leader Tony Abbott (C) stands with his wife Margaret (2nd L) and daughters (L-R) Frances, Louise and Bridget as he claims victory in Australia's federal election during an election night function in Sydney September 7, 2013. [Photo/Agencies]

BEIJING - Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday extended congratulations to Australia's newly elected Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Li said in his congratulatory that message China and Australia, as two important countries in the Asia-Pacific region, shared broad common interests.

Following a strategic and long-term perspective, China is ready to work with Australia to continuously push forward their strategic partnership on the basis of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefits, Li said.

Abbott, leader of the opposition Coalition, won a crushing victory in national polls Saturday to end six years of Labor government.