The European Parliament (AP) has elected Italian conservative Antonio Tajani as its new president to replace German Social Democratic politician Martin Schulz.

"#EPlenary has elected Italian @Antonio_Tajani (EPP) as the new president of the European Parliament," AP said on its official Twitter account on Tuesday.

Tajani was elected in the fourth round of voting as three rounds saw no absolute majority of votes. He won 351 votes against 282 for Gianni Pittella in the fourth round.

Speaking after the announcement of the results, Tajani said he dedicated his success to the victims of the 2016 earthquake in Italy and called on unity in Europe