China calls for more diplomatic efforts for Syria

UNITED NATIONS-- China's envoy to the United Nations (UN) Ma Zhaoxu on Friday called on all parties of the Syrian conflict to step up diplomatic efforts, address issues through dialogue, and facilitate de-escalation in the war-torn country.

At a Security Council meeting on Syria, the Chinese permanent representative to the UN said the Syrian political process is stalled with rampant terrorist activities and high tensions in parts of the country, especially in the northwestern province of Idlib.

Given the situation, "China calls on all relevant parties to step up diplomatic efforts, address issues through dialogue, and facilitate de-escalation," he said.

Meanwhile, the international community should synergize their efforts and continue to resolutely combat terrorism and consolidate the gains so far achieved, he said.

Friday's meeting was held against the backdrop of imminent offensive by the Syrian government aided by Russia on Idlib, the last remaining rebel stronghold in the country that has undergone seven years of conflict.

UN officials have warned of "catastrophic humanitarian consequences," should the offensive take place, estimating about 3 million people would be put at risk.

In this context, China calls on all parties to do everything possible to avoid harming innocent civilians, Ma said.

Moreover, he stressed that all parties should abide by the rules and principles of the UN Charter and other basic norms of international relations, fully respect Syria's sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity, and avoid the willful use or threat of use of force.

The Chinese envoy reiterated that China always stands for a political solution to the Syrian crisis, which is the only way out for peace and stability in Syria.

The international community should provide steady support to the UN as the main mediator and support to its special envoy Staffan de Mistura in his efforts to facilitate the resumption of the Geneva peace talks, he said.

De Mistura will hold discussions with relevant parties on the establishment of the Syrian Constitutional Committee, Ma said, urging all parties to exert their influence and push the government and the opposition groups to reach for early results, and to add momentum to the political process.