China calls for constructive ties with US amid Democratic gains in midterm elections

China on Wednesday called for building a "constructive strategic relationship" with the US as Democrats were projected to take control of Congress following midterm elections that dealt a major setback to President Donald Trump.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the elections as a US "domestic" affair, emphasizing Beijing's willingness to maintain cooperation with Washington.

"China is willing to work with the US to safeguard and implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen communication, properly manage differences and expand cooperation, build a constructive strategic relationship based on respect and equality," Mao told reporters in Beijing.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Trump agreed during summits in May and September to pursue a "constructive relationship of strategic stability based on respect, fairness and reciprocity."

Democrats were projected by US media to secure 53 Senate seats, compared with 42 for Republicans, as counting continued in the remaining races.

The party was also poised to win at least 218 seats in the 435-member House of Representatives, the threshold needed for a majority.

Xi is expected to host Trump later this month in Shenzhen, southern China, for a summit on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.