Four principles proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping on the constructive participation of relevant parties in the resolution of African hotspot issues provide practical guidance for addressing issues including the current situation in the Horn of Africa, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on October 19.

Xi put forward the principles during his meeting with President of the Council of Ministers of Togo Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé in Beijing last week.

When asked whether this was related to the current situation in northern Ethiopia, Mao Ning, the spokesperson, told a regular press briefing that the principles provide practical guidance for addressing issues including the current situation in the Horn of Africa.

First, upholding Africa's leadership, Mao said, citing the principles. "African people are the true masters of the continent and should therefore play a central role in regional affairs."

Second, safeguarding equity and justice. Parties should observe the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries concerned, she said.

Third, ceasing hostilities and building peace. "War and unilateral sanctions are never real solutions to disputes between states. Countries should respect each other, engage in extensive consultation, seek common ground despite differences, and practice mutual understanding and accommodation," Mao said.

"Fourth, addressing both symptoms and root causes. Addressing immediate security concerns should go hand in hand with long-term development planning," the spokesperson said.