China wishes smooth general election for Bangladesh: spokesman

China hopes Bangladesh's general election will go smoothly as scheduled, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Wednesday, in response to a media query regarding the general election in Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh's general election is part of the internal affairs of Bangladesh. China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. We believe that the interim government of Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi people are fully capable of handling their own affairs and pursuing a development path suited to their national conditions," said Lin Jian, the spokesman, at a press conference in Beijing.

"China hopes that Bangladesh will hold its general election as scheduled and smoothly, and advance the nation's political agenda in an orderly manner," said the spokesman.

Bangladesh's Election Commission has announced that the country's first-ever twin polls -- the 13th National Parliamentary Election and a referendum -- will be held on Feb 12, 2026.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday extended New Year wishes for the coming year when delivering his New Year message to ring in 2026.

"Greetings to all! Year after year, life opens a fresh chapter. As the new year begins, I extend my best wishes to you from Beijing!" Xi said in the message delivered through China Media Group and the Internet.

Noting that 2025 marks the completion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for economic and social development, Xi commended the country's efforts in the past five years, saying the Chinese people have pressed ahead with enterprise and fortitude, and overcome many difficulties and challenges.

The country met the targets in the Plan and made solid advances on the new journey of Chinese modernization, he said.