Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Weimin announces:

At the invitation of Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, Walid Muallem, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Syria will pay a working visit to China on April 18.

China adopts an objective and equitable stance on the Syrian issue and always stands for its resolution by political and peaceful means. To this end, we have stayed in contact and communication with the Syrian Government and relevant opposition groups so as to promote peaceful negotiations. The invitation to Syrian Foreign Minister to visit China is part of China's endeavour. Soon, senior officials of the Syrian opposition will also come to China for a visit. China is willing to continue its positive and constructive role in seeking a fair, peaceful and proper resolution of the Syrian issue.