BEIJING - China is deeply grieved about the passing of Saudi King Abdullah, a good friend of the Chinese people, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Friday.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a routine press briefing that China conveys sincere sympathy to the authorities and people of Saudi Arabia over the heart-wrenching event.

As a great leader of Suadi Arabia, Late King Abdullah has dedicated his life to promoting national development and safeguarding peace and stability of the Middle East and the Gulf region, enjoying high prestige at home and abroad, said Hua.

Late King Abdullah has always attached importance to pushing forward relations with China, Hua said, stressing that he made great contributions in deepening bilateral friendship and cooperation.

Abdullah, born in 1924, was hospitalized in December for pneumonia and was put on assisted breathing. He died at 1:00 am Friday (2200 GMT Thursday).

Abdullah's half-brother Salman has become the new ruler. Prince Muqrin was declared new Crown Prince.