CAIRO -- China's special envoy for the Syrian issue Xie Xiaoyan said on Monday that Beijing is ready play an even greater role in helping end the Syrian crisis.

He made the remarks while attending a press conference at the headquarters of the Arab League (AL) following a meeting with Nabil al-Araby, the secretary general of AL.

Xie said the Syrian crisis has now arrived at a very critical stage, while all concerned parties and the international community should work even harder toward a political solution, and take effective steps.

"China believes that cease-fire must be implemented thoroughly and comprehensively," he said, adding that "urgent measures should be put in place to ensure that relief aid reach those affected."

The Chinese envoy arrived in Cairo on Sunday. It is his first visit to Egypt since he landed on the job in March.