Oscar-winning actor George Clooney visited China from Dec. 10 to 12, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang confirmed on Thursday.

As guest of Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs, Clooney paid the visit with the purpose of raising people's awareness over Darfur issue, Qin said.

During his stay in China, Clooney met with officials from Chinese Foreign Ministry, and was briefed on China's stance on the Darfur issue, according to Qin.

Clooney is well known for his activism in finding solutions for ending conflict in Sudan's western region of Darfur. He was reported to visit this region in April.

China hopes to propel an early settlement of Darfur issue through dialogue and consultation, Qin said.

Source: Xinhua