Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the opposition Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on Friday after winning a majority in a parliamentary vote.

Anutin beat his sole contender, nominated by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, to lead the next government, following a court ruling last week that removed Paetongtarn Shinawatra from her premiership over an ethics breach.

After a one-hour roll call vote, Second Deputy House Speaker Chalad Khamchuang announced that Anutin received 311 votes in favor from the 490 members present in the House of Representatives, exceeding the simple majority required for approval.

Anutin is pending formal endorsement by Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn to become the 32nd prime minister of the Southeast Asian country.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday congratulated Anutin on his election. "China and Thailand are close friends and neighbors. The two countries, like one family, are as close as ever," a spokesperson said.

Noting this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the spokesperson said that China stands ready to work with Thailand to carry forward the traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication and deepen practical cooperation.

China also hopes to join hands with Thailand to achieve greater progress in the building of the China-Thailand community with a shared future and contribute to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region, said the spokesperson.