Political dialogue key for South Sudan reconciliation: China

Beijing, Aug 20 (IANS) China Tuesday told South Sudan that political dialogues are the sole way for South Sudan to realise national reconciliation.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here in a meeting with his South Sudanese counterpart Marial Benjamin that to cease fire and end violence is the precondition for peace and stability in South Sudan, Xinhua reported.

Saying political dialogues were the sole way for South Sudan to realise national reconciliation, Wang expressed the hope that conflicting parties and other political parties would jointly push forward inclusive political dialogues and find a solution acceptable to all.

Hot issues in Africa should be settled by African countries in its own way, Wang said, adding it is the principle in mediating South Sudan conflicts.

China firmly backs the mediation efforts and leading role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), he added.

China has offered humanitarian assistance to South Sudan since the occurrences of conflicts in the country, Wang said, adding China would continue its aid as the situation develops.

Benjamin said South Sudan attaches great importance to its ties with China, and appreciates China's mediation efforts and proposals.

South Sudan would like to make utmost efforts in promoting ceasefire, dialogues and reconciliation, Benjamin said.