Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday called on relevant parties in Myanmar to exercise restraint and settle differences through dialogue and consultation.

Wang made the remarks during a media conference held via video link on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress in Beijing, where he answered questions from domestic and foreign journalists on China's foreign policy and external relations.

Viewing peace and stability as the prerequisite for the country's development, Wang said he hopes relevant parties in Myanmar will act in the fundamental interests of the people and address their differences through dialogue and consultation within the constitutional and legal framework, and continue to advance the democratic transition.

"The immediate priority is to prevent further bloodshed and conflict," noted Wang, urging relevant parties to ease the situation as soon as possible.

Noting that Myanmar is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Wang expressed China's support for ASEAN in seeking common grounds on the premise of non-interference and consensus.

China is also willing to play a constructive role in deescalation of tensions on the basis of respecting Myanmar's sovereignty and the will of its people.

The Chinese foreign minister spoke highly of China's ties with Myanmar as the two countries are "pauk-phaw" brothers connected by the same mountains and rivers. He said China has always maintained friendly exchanges with various political parties in Myanmar.

No matter how the situation evolves, China will not waver in its commitment to advancing China-Myanmar relations, and will not change the course of promoting friendship and cooperation with Myanmar, he said.

(Cover: The Uppatasanti Pagoda in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. /Xinhua)