China calls for ceasefire in Gaza

China's special envoy on Middle East Affairs Wu Sike said on Monday China will continue to promote a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Wu told a press briefing that China supports Egypt's cease-fire initiative, which called for an end to military operations followed by indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

Parties involved should gain consensus based on this initiative, he said, adding that the way out for the Gaza conflict is to resume and promote peaceful negotiations.

As part of international mediation efforts, Wu visited Palestine, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Qatar and the headquarters of the Arab League from July 15-25.

Earlier he visited Iraq, Turkey and Iran from July 7-14 to mediate Iraq's stability.

Wu said he met with high-level officials of various countries during his tours to express China's support for regional security.

To promote political conciliation is the key to solve Iraq's problems, he said, adding various factions should conduct dialogues and form an inclusive government as soon as possible, to speed up political reconciliation and economic reconstruction.