BEIJING – China supports the Iraqi government in safeguarding its national stability and advancing economic recovery, a foreign ministry spokesperson said Monday.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi Saturday officially declared the full liberation of Iraq from Islamic State militants, after Iraqi forces recaptured all areas held by the extremist group.

Addressing A news briefing in Beijing Monday, Lu Kang, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, said China congratulated Iraq on its successful anti-terrorism war, noting it marked positive progress in global anti-terrorism cooperation.

READ MORE: Iraq declares 'total victory' over Islamic State in Mosul

"China hopes Iraq can achieve national stability and development at an early date," Lu said.