BEIJING, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang extended congratulations Monday to Chairman of Nepal's Communist Party (Unified Marxist-Leninist) Khadga Prashad Sharma Oli on his assumption of Nepal's premiership.

In his message, Li said that China and Nepal are close friendly neighbors and long-tested friends, and the two sides consistently support each other on those major issues of mutual concern.

Li believed that, under the leadership of Oli and Nepal's new government, Nepal will score new achievements in the process of maintaining the stability of the country and promoting economic development.

The Chinese premier said that he is willing to join hands with Oli to further boost the all-around cooperative partnership between China and Nepal.

Oli was elected Nepal's 38th prime minister through a parliamentary vote on Sunday afternoon.