China has been actively promoting peace talks between the warring parties since the South Sudan conflict broke out, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

The Chinese government's special representative on African affairs, Ambassador Zhong Jianhua, took part in a telephone conference with South Sudan's Foreign Minister Barnaba Marial Benjamin on Wednesday. He urged all parties to exercise restraint and remain calm, and to begin cease-fire negotiations as soon as possible, said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying at a scheduled news conference.

According to Hua, Zhong has wrapped up his mediation mission to South Sudan and neighboring countries.

Hua said China has promoted the international community to play an active role in easing the tensions in South Sudan, and has maintained "close communication, coordination and cooperation" with all parties.

"Beijing will continue to provide assistance within its capability, depending on the development of South Sudan's situation," Hua added.

China Daily

(China Daily 12/28/2013 page7)