China welcomes Myanmar ceasefire

China on Friday welcomed the ceasefire in northeast Myanmar.

"We hope the conflicting sides can show restraint and stop the war as soon as possible," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei, referring to Thursday's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire from the ethnic Kokang's Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army.

"China supports all sides in Myanmar to solve their disputes through negotiation, realize peace and national reconciliation at an early date, and jointly maintain stability in the border areas. This is in the interests of both countries," Hong said.

"To this end, in accordance with Myanmar's will, China is playing an active and constructive role in promoting the peace process in northern Myanmar, which is welcomed by the Myanmar side. China will continue to play an active role in it," he added.