China welcomes Libya election results

China on Thursday welcomed the announcement of the results of Libya's parliamentary election, calling for dialogue to address disputes in the war-afflicted country.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks in response to a question on the situation in Libya.

On Monday, Libya's electoral committee announced the results of the June 25 election, but many fear it may only fuel the ongoing clashes between pro-secular militia and armed Islamic groups. The new parliament, the House of Representatives, was elected to replace the previous General National Congress.

Commenting on the election results as "important and positive development" in Libya's political transition, Hong said it is regrettable that military conflicts are continuing in some areas in the country and that the situation is still worrisome.

He said Libya is a friend of China, which hopes all the sides concerned in Libya will address their disputes through dialogue and consultation, with the fundamental interests of the nation and the people as the main motivating factor.

"China stands ready to work with the international community to continue playing an active and constructive role in Libya's process of political transition and economic rebuilding," the spokesman said.