Kathmandu, Sept. 14 -- China has congratulated former Chief Justice Sushila Karki on becoming Nepal's interim prime minister, saying it stands ready to work with Kathmandu to advance bilateral ties.

"China congratulates Sushila Karki on becoming Prime Minister of Nepal's interim government," the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a statement on Sunday. "China, as always, respects the development path chosen independently by the people of Nepal. We stand ready to promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and further advance bilateral relations."

Karki was sworn in as head of the interim government on Friday, following violent protests that left 51 dead and forced the form...