China, South Africa presidents discuss Libya situation

Beijing, 21 July - By prior arrangement on 21 July, President Hu Jintao talked over phone with South African President Zuma. The two countries' heads of state exchanged views on bilateral relations and on issues of common concern.

The two countries' heads of state were satisfied with the development of bilateral relations, stated that they were willing to make common efforts to further deepen and development the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and South Africa.

Zuma briefed on the efforts made by the African Union [AU] on the peaceful resolution of the Libyan issue, stated that the AU had presented plans and roadmap on the peaceful resolution of the Libyan issue and maintained contacts with the two conflicting parties of Libya and with various parties. The AU will continue to maintain communication and coordination with the Chinese side and with relevant various parties and strive to resolve the Libyan issue through peaceful way.

Hu Jintao pointed out that at present the Libyan situation had become the focus of international community's attention, and that the humanitarian crisis thus triggered was worrisome. The Chinese side called on relevant parties to immediately cease fire, carry out talks on the peaceful resolution of the Libyan crisis at an early date, resolve the dispute through political means and peaceful methods, and restore normal order through dialogue and consultations. The Chinese side holds that the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Libya must be respected, the future of Libya should be decided by the people of Libya, and the international community should respect the Libyan people's independent choice. The Chinese side hopes relevant parties of Libya will stress the interests of the state and of the people, proceed from the overall situation of maintaining regional peace and stability, seriously consider mediation plans by the AU and by relevant parties, and assume an even more flexible and pragmatic attitude. The international community should also play an even more active and constructive role in this regards.

Hu Jintao pointed out that South Africa and the AU have played an important role in promoting political resolution to the Libyan issue and displayed the determination of the African countries' resolution of African issues with African way. To this, the Chinese side expresses high appreciation, and is willing, together with South Africa and the AU, to continuously maintain close communication and coordination on the Libyan issue.