China hopes Sudan will maintain peace and stability and ensure the security and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country, said Chinese Ambassador to Sudan Ma Xinmin on Wednesday.

He made the remarks in a meeting with General Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, with whom he exchanged views on the current situation in Sudan. 

Highlighting the principle of non-interference in internal affairs of sovereign states, Ma said China believes the Sudanese people have the wisdom and ability to handle their own affairs well.

On this premise of respecting Sudan's sovereignty, Ma also called on the international community to focus on the interests and well-being of Sudan and its people, do more to ease the tension, promote unity and cooperation among all parties, and help Sudan tide over the difficulties.

Al-Burhan said he appreciated China's consistent support for Sudan's political transition and was grateful for its valuable contribution to the country's economic, social and livelihood development, adding that he hoped China would continue to play a positive role on the Sudan issue.

China is an influential country in the world and also a long-term strategic partner of Sudan. Sudan attaches great importance to the bilateral relations with China, he said. Sudan is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in various fields and will firmly protect the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country, he said.