China welcomes the agreement reached between Sudan's government and Darfur rebel groups, highlighting that political negotiation is an effective way to resolve the Darfur issue, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said Thursday in Beijing.

"The agreement is a positive progress made by Sudan's government and rebel groups in peace talks, which is conducive to the stability of Darfur region", Liu said.

Liu made the remarks at a routine press conference in response to a reporter's question on the Darfur issue.

He expressed hope that the issue could be resolved appropriately at an early date under the auspices of the African Union and with continuous efforts made by parties concerned.

Sudan's government and two Darfur rebel groups ended their fifth round of talks Tuesday with a broad agreement on north African nation's unity and "justice and equality for all."

A document released at the end of the talks stressed "an effective devolution of powers" to regional authorities which mediators said would be further discussed in the talks scheduled for next month.

Source: Xinhua