China recognizes Russian State Duma election: FM

BEIJING - China on Friday recognized the Russian State Duma election, rebutting allegations by the US that the vote was marred by fraud.

"China believes the result of the State Duma election has reflected the will of Russian people," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular news briefing, responding to the US' allegation that Sunday's election was slanted to favor the ruling party.

"We respect the choice of the Russian people and support Russia to develop along the road that conforms to its own national situation," Hong said.