MOSCOW - China on Monday extended heartfelt congratulations to Vladimir Putin on his inauguration for a fourth term as Russian president.

"The Chinese side believes that under the leadership of President Putin, Russia will keep making achievements in its nation building and social and economic development," Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang told a routine press briefing.

Vladimir Putin took oath of office on Monday to start his fourth term as Russian president.

"It is my duty and the meaning of my entire life to do everything for Russia, its present and future, to ensure that it is peaceful and prosperous, to preserve and perpetuate our great people, and bring prosperity to every household in Russia," Putin said at the inauguration ceremony in the Grand Kremlin Palace.