China welcomes talks on Central African Republic crisis

China on Monday said it welcomes the acceptance of peace talks by all related parties on the crisis in the Central African Republic.

"China is opposed to the violent attacks of the Central African Republic's anti-government forces and supports positive efforts to resolve the crisis made by the African Union, the Economic Community of Central African States and relevant regional states," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a daily press briefing.

"China hopes all related parties can safeguard the Central African Republic's sovereignty and territorial integrity while bearing in mind the overall situation of national peace and development," Hong said.

He said China will work with the international community to help the African country restore peace and stability.

Talks between the government of the Central African Republic and anti-government forces are scheduled to be held in Libreville, capital of Gabon, and could begin Tuesday.

The Libreville talks are considered the only path for avoiding the forceful removal of Francois Bozize, president of the Central African Republic, who has been cornered by the Seleka rebel coalition. Seleka is demanding Bozize step down from the presidency for failing to honor the 2008 peace agreements.