China on Tuesday reiterated that Sudan should resolve the on-going conflict in Darfur through negotiations.

"China's stance on the Darfur issue is consistent and clear. China maintains that the issue should be resolved politically," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a regular briefing on Tuesday.

Qin's comments coincide with Chinese special envoy Zhai Jun's return to Beijing on Tuesday following a four-day tour of Sudan.

Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Zhai held meetings with Sudanese President Omer al-Bashir and high-ranking government officials. He paid a one-day visit to Darfur, touring three refugee camps.

Zhai also consulted with the Sudanese government on the proposal put forward by former U.N chief Kofi Annan to deploy peacekeeping force in Darfur, the western region in Sudan.

Zhai said on Monday that China supports the three-phase proposal put forward by Annan, calling it realistic and feasible.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo on Monday evening talked via telephone with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte on the situation in Darfur.

"China would like to work with the international community on improving the humanitarian and security situation in Darfur," Qin said.

The spokesman added China will make positive and constructive efforts to accomplish peace, stability and development of the region.

Source: Xinhua