Chinese FM meets Syrian opposition group delegation

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Monday met with a delegation of Syria's National Coordination Body for Democratic Change headed by General Coordinator Hasan Abdul-Azim.

Yang said the international community should stick to searching for a political solution, as the use of force won't solve the issue.

All relevant parties in Syria should cooperate with new UN-Arab League joint special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, cease all violence and initiate political dialogues as soon as possible, said Yang.

He stressed that the will and choice of the Syrian people should be fully respected and the political transition should be directed by the Syrian people, not outside forces.

China will respect and support any political resolution as long as it is accepted by all relevant parties in Syria, the foreign minister said.

He added that China attaches importance to the role Syria's National Coordination Body for Democratic Change is playing in the conflict and wishes to maintain contact with the organization.

Abdul-Azim introduced four proposals put forward by the organization on ceasing violence, releasing prisoners, ensuring humanitarian access and initiating a political transition process.

He said the organization advocates a political solution to the Syrian conflict and supports the mediation efforts made by Brahimi. He also expressed appreciation for China's endeavors to encourage a political resolution.

Vice Foreign Minister Zhai Jun also held talks with Abdul-Azim and the delegation on Monday.

The delegation is visiting China from Sept. 16 to 20 at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.