BEIJING, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to work with the international community to play an active role in the reconstruction of Syria, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said Friday.
Lu made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to a question concerning a recent interview in Moscow by Chinese special envoy for Syria Xie Xiaoyan.
Xie visited Russia from Wednesday to Thursday during which he told reporters that China has the willingness and capability to play an active role in the rebuilding of war-torn Syria, and the Chinese government is taking steps to encourage Chinese companies to take part in the process.
Lu said there has been progress in the Syrian situation recently with parties reaching agreement on the establishment of the fourth de-escalation zone, and fight against terrorism continues to move forward.
"China hopes the international community can take advantage of this opportunity to continue to support UN mediation, and promote new progress on a political settlement to the Syrian issue and a cease-fire via the platforms of the Geneva and Astana talks," Lu said.
Since war broke out in Syria in March 2011, the crisis has claimed more than 320,000 lives and displaced millions, the United Nations has estimated.
