BEIJING, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei on Monday voiced the country's congratulations for Venezuela's Hugo Chavez on his reelection as president.

"Venezuela presidential election ran smoothly on Sunday and President Chavez won reelection. We express our congratulations on this," Hong said at a regular news briefing.

"China hopes Venezuela can have continuous new achievements in nation building under the leadership of President Chavez," Hong said.

At around 10 p.m. local time on Sunday (02:30 GMT on Monday), the National Election Council announced Chavez carried 54.42 percent of the vote, compared with 44.47 percent for rival Henrique Capriles.

Hugo Chavez called his reelection "the people's victory" in a late-night speech delivered from the balcony of the presidential palace. Enditem