China will make joint efforts with the international community for an early settlement of the Darfur issue, said Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing Friday.

"China attaches great importance to relations with the Sudan and supports the peace process between the north and south of Sudan," said Li, while meeting with visiting Sudanese Minister of External Affairs Mustafa Othman Ismail, who arrived in Beijing Thursday for a four-day official visit to China.

Ismail briefed Li on Sudan's latest development, saying Sudan will further expand friendly cooperation with China in various fields.

Li and Ismail also exchanged views on UN reform, which has caused major differences among the member states.

Ismail said artificial timetable should not be set for " democratic consultations and discussions" though the UN should increase its authority, efficiency and unity by reform.

Source: Xinhua