China on Friday became one of the last major countries to congratulate former Vice President Joe Biden on being elected as the U.S. President.

Incumbent American President Donald Trump has so far refused to concede defeat, but numerous world leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, have already called Biden to congraulate him on his win.

“We respect the choice of the American people,” foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. “We congratulate Mr. Biden and (vice presidential running mate) Ms. Harris.”

Wang added, “At the same time, the result will be confirmed according to U.S. laws and procedures.”

The leaders of Russia, Brazil and Mexico are still holding back, saying they are waiting for the votes to be confirmed by the US Electoral College next month.

“We believe it’s correct to wait for the official results of the elections to be announced,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.