On May 20, 2005, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing held talks with visiting Sudanese Foreign Minister Mustafa Osman Ismail. Li said China highly prioritizes its relations with Sudan, supports the peace process of the north and the south of Sudan and would like to make continued efforts to promote an early resolution of the Darfur issue. Ismail said Sudan would like to further expand bilateral friendly cooperation in various fields. He also gave an update of the situation in Sudan.

The two sides also exchanged views on the reform of the United Nations and other issues. Ismail stressed that we should enhance the UN's authority, efficiency and unity through reform and should not set a timeframe for democratic consultations and discussions.