China names new special envoy for Afghanistan affairs

BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- China has recently named a new special envoy for Afghanistan affairs and will continue to play a constructive role in achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan at an early date, a spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang made the remarks at a press briefing when answering a question concerning the report that Deng Xijun, former special envoy for Afghanistan affairs, has recently been appointed Chinese ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"China has always actively participated in and promoted the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan and attaches great importance to communication and coordination with relevant parties and international cooperation involving Afghanistan," Geng said.

Deng Xijun, the former special envoy for Afghanistan affairs, made positive contributions to the political settlement of the Afghan issue during his tenure and has recently taken up his new post as China's ambassador to ASEAN, Geng confirmed.

China appointed Liu Jian as the new special envoy for Afghanistan affairs. Liu, a veteran diplomat with rich experience and familiarity with Afghan affairs, has served as China's ambassador to Afghanistan, Malaysia and Pakistan.