China on Wednesday expressed its support for negotiations on the Darfur issue, and pledged to play a constructive role in achieving peace and stability in Sudan.

 

"China hopes parties concerned could resolve the Darfur issue at an early date through dialogue and patient negotiations so as to benefit peace and stability in Sudan as well as in the region," said Vice President Zeng Qinghong in a meeting with Sudanese Assistant President Nafie Ali Nafie.

 

"China will continue to play its constructive role in this regard," Zeng added.

 

Nafie is in Beijing for a five-day visit to China starting from Monday, according to sources with the Foreign Ministry.

 

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing met with Nafie early Wednesday. Li said China supports the implementation of related peace agreements.

 

Since the two countries forged diplomatic relations about half a century ago, China and Sudan have seen pragmatic trade cooperation and China will work with Sudan to lift bilateral relations to a new height, Zeng said.

 

(Xinhua News Agency September 7, 2006)