China raises six-point statement for resolving Syria issue

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua)-- Chinese Foreign Ministry on Sunday issued a six-point statement for the political resolution on Syria issue.

"China follows closely the developments of the situation in Syria, firmly maintains that the current crisis should be resolved through political dialogue in a peaceful and appropriate manner, and has made unremitting efforts to this end", a leading Chinese Foreign Ministry official said in the statement in anonymity.

"It is deeply worrying that the situation in Syria remains grave", the official said, pointing out that violent clashes are continuing, political dialogue still cannot start, and the prospects of a peaceful settlement to the crisis are still dim.

"China is a responsible country and a friend of the Arab people, including the Syrian people. China adheres to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations", the official added.

"China is committed to upholding the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Syria, peace and stability in the Middle East, and peace and tranquility of the whole world", the official said.

According to the official, for realizing a political settlement of the Syrian issue at an early date, China advocates and appeals for the following:

1. The Syrian Government and all parties concerned should immediately, fully and unconditionally cease all acts of violence, particularly violence against innocent civilians. Various factions in Syria should express political aspirations through non-violent means.

2. The Syrian Government and various factions should bear in mind the long-term and fundamental interests of their country and people, immediately launch an inclusive political dialogue with no preconditions attached or outcome predetermined through impartial mediation of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations (UN) and the Arab League (AL), agree on a comprehensive and detailed road-map and timetable for reform through consultation and implement them as soon as possible with a view to restoring national stability and public order.