The fast-moving events in recent months have taken Afghanistan closer to peace than ever, but the road ahead is far from smooth, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday.
Wang made the remarks at a press conference on the sidelines of the annual national legislative session.
He said five urgent tasks need to be accomplished to realize peace in Afghanistan, including consolidating the unity of the government, establishing the framework for intra-Afghan talks, withdrawal of foreign troops in an appropriate and orderly manner, striking terrorism and obtaining external support.
In terms of the government unity, Wang said China welcomes the agreement between President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani and Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and looks forward to normal functioning of the government as early as possible.
China calls on all parties in the country to immediately cease fire and reach an early agreement on the arrangements for intra-Afghan talks for the country's future political architecture, according to Wang.
"China will continue to play an active and constructive role in promoting intra-Afghan talks, restoring peace and stability, advancing economic recovery in Afghanistan, and facilitating its participation in regional cooperation," said Wang.
