China opposes armed intervention in Syria

China opposes armed intervention or forcing a so-called "regime change" in Syria, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN Wang Min said Thursday.

"We condemn all acts of violence against innocent civilians and urge the government and all political factions of Syria to immediately and fully end all acts of violence, and quickly restore stability and the normal social order," Wang said in explanatory remarks after casting a negative vote on a draft resolution on Syria at the UN General Assembly.

China calls on the Syrian government to seriously heed the people's legitimate desire for reform and development, and calls on the various political factions to express their political aspirations nonviolently under the rule of law, Wang said.

The Chinese government consistently pursues an independent foreign policy of peace and is committed to upholding regional and world peace and stability, Wang said, adding China has closely followed the developments of the situation and is deeply worried about the escalating crisis that has caused civilian casualties and affected peace and stability in the region.

"We urge all parties concerned in Syria to immediately launch inclusive political dialogue with no preconditions and jointly discuss a comprehensive political reform plan and mechanism," he said.

The ambassador said China calls for a referendum on the draft of a new Constitution and parliamentary election at an early date and establishment of a national unity government participated by various factions.

China understands the concern of Arab countries and the Arab League (AL) on seeking a quick solution to the Syrian issue, and values the important role as well as the efforts of Arab countries and the AL in seeking a political solution to the issue, he said.

Wang said China appreciates efforts made by Arab countries and the AL for a political solution to the Syrian issue, which China hopes will be resolved within the framework of the AL through political and peaceful means.

"We believe that the international community should fully respect Syria's sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity, the independent choice of the Syrian people, as well as the result of political dialogue among various parties of Syria," he said.

"We do not believe that sanctions or the threat of sanctions is helpful to achieving an appropriate solution." Wang said.

Actions of the international community and the United Nations on the Syrian issue should help ease tensions, facilitate political dialogue and resolve differences, he said.

"Such actions, instead of complicating the issue, should be helpful to maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East and upholding unity of the international community," Wang said.