Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Thursday that China hopes all sides will avoid using force and refrain from taking any action that could escalate tensions in Syria.

Hua made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a question about China's comments on recent Israeli air strikes targeting Syria.

She said China has maintained close communication with all sides involved, including Israel, and reiterated China's stance on the conflict.

China has been making efforts to promote a political resolution to the conflict, as well as provided advice and suggestions, she said.

China has also supported mediation efforts by Lakhdar Brahimi, joint special representative of the United Nations and the Arab League for Syria, and welcomed a recent consensus reached by Russia and the United States regarding the conflict, she said.

China will continue to work with the international community to promote political dialogue, carry out a political transition and resolve the conflict fairly, peacefully and properly, she added.

(Xinhua News Agency May 9, 2013)