China calls for order in Burkina Faso

BEIJING - China called on all parties in the West African country of Burkina Faso to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation to restore order soon following volatility in the country.

Burkina Faso's President, Blaise Compaore, resigned Friday and fled to Cote d'Ivoire following days of mass protests over his bid to amend the constitution to extend his 27-year rule.

The military on Saturday appointed Lieutenant Colonel Issaac Zida to lead an interim government, a move that triggered demonstrations Sunday with protesters pressing the military to cede power and demanding a return to civilian rule.

"China is closely following the situation in the country," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a regular news briefing.

China hopes all parties in Burkina Faso can proceed from the fundamental interests of the nation and people, and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation to restore order, national stability and development, she said.

The African Union (AU) on Monday urged the army in Burkina Faso to transfer power to civilians within a two-week period.

Asked if China plans to establish ties with the country after the resignation of pro-Taiwan President Blaise Compaore, Hua said: "We have always adhered to the one-China policy and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence to develop friendly relations with other countries."

The mainland is willing to work with Taiwan to promote peace and development across the strait, the spokeswoman added.