The Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao has told reporters that China will not protect Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria.
The statement, which marks a significant change in tone since vetoing a UN resolution condemning the crackdown on opposition activists, is thought to be a move designed to limit damage after widespread criticism of its perceived protection of the Syrian state.
Mr Jiabao addressed reporters after talks with EU officials in Beijing.
Speaking alongside European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, Jiabao insisted China was committed to a peaceful solution in Syria.
"What is most urgent and pressing now is to prevent war and chaos so that the Syrian people will be freed from greater sufferings," he said.
"This accords with the fundamental interests of the Syrian people and also will contribute to the peace and stability of the entire Middle East region.
"To achieve this objective, China supports all efforts consistent with the UN charter purposes and principles, and we are ready to strengthen communication with all parties in Syria and the international community and continue to play a constructive role.
"China will absolutely not protect any party, including the government of Syria."
Russia and China veto resolution on Syria - 04 Feb 2012
‘A supremely pragmatic actor’ - 17 Jan 2011
