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© AFP 2016/ MARK RALSTON
Iowa Governor Terry Branstad has accepted the offer from President-elect Donald Trump to serve as US ambassador to China, Trump transition spokesman Jason Miller said.

When asked if Branstad had accepted the nomination, Miller said, "Yes, he has accepted."

"It is very clear that Governor Branstad is someone who will represent our country well on the world stage and we couldn't be prouder of this selection," he added.

According to Trump's team, the governor was chosen as an ambassador to China because of an "tremendous understanding of China and Chinese people."

According to media reports, Branstad has known Chinese President Xi Jinping since 1985. The Iowa governor has since visited China several times.

Branstad "very much impressed the president-elect," Miller said.