"China strongly supports the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Syria, will provide all possible assistance in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic, in revitalizing the country's economy and improving the lives of the population, will help to ensure that the Sino-Syrian cooperation rises to a new level," the statement says.
In his congratulatory telegram, Xi said China and Syria are traditionally friendly states; Syria was one of the first Arab countries to establish diplomatic relations with China.
"I attach great importance to the development of Sino-Syrian relations, and I am ready, together with President Assad, to develop Sino-Syrian relations to achieve even greater success," the Chinese leader said.
Presidential elections were held in Syria on May 26. Assad, who has served as President of Syria since 2000, was elected for another seven-year term, receiving 95.1 percent of the vote.
