BEIJING, June 16  -- China respects the Afghanistan people's choice in the presidential runoff, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a daily press briefing on Monday.

China congratulates Afghanistan on the generally stable atmosphere of the second round of the presidential election on Saturday, Hua said.

As Afghanistan's friendly neighbor, China is looking forward to see a united, stable, growing and friendly Afghanistan, she added.

China will continue to be committed to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership with Afghanistan, and is ready to work with the international community to promote the country's long-term peace, stability and prosperity, Hua said.

The runoff will decide whether former Foreign Minister Abdullah Abdullah or former Finance Minister Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai becomes the country's new president.

Election officials in Kabul say over seven million out of about 12 million eligible voters casted votes.