China appoints special envoy for Syria

BEIJING - China has appointed a special envoy for the Syrian issue, indicating a more active role in addressing the conflict.

Xie Xiaoyan, former ambassador to Iran and Ethiopia as well as representative to the African Union, has been appointed to the post, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said at a regular news briefing on Tuesday.

"Xie, with a rich understanding of Middle East affairs, will fulfill his mission," Hong said.

With the Syrian issue "at a crucial stage for settlement," China has named the special envoy to better promote dialogue, contribute Chinese wisdom and communicate with other parties to facilitate a proper solution, Hong said.

Syrian government troops and the opposition are implementing a ceasefire agreement, and humanitarian assistance is progressing. The latest round of Syrian peace talks wrapped up on Thursday in Geneva.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has played a constructive role in addressing the Syrian issue. China advocates political settlement as the only solution, supports the UN's leading role and has provided humanitarian aid to Syria and surrounding countries, the spokesperson added.