UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 22 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Friday called on the international community to help de-escalate the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and restore peace in the broader region.

Violence against civilians is unacceptable, said Sun Lei, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations. "The international community must urge all armed groups in eastern DRC to respect international humanitarian law, stop violence at once and engage in disarmament processes, and support the DRC in protecting the lives and property of civilians, including foreign nationals."

China reiterates its support for the DRC government's efforts to uphold sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, he told the UN Security Council.

The recent positive engagement between the DRC and Rwanda has created a promising momentum. The international community must call on the two countries to fulfill their commitments and obligations and work together toward a political settlement of the conflict in eastern DRC, said Sun.

China commends Qatar's mediation efforts leading to the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the DRC government and the M23 Movement. As the Doha negotiations enter the most critical and challenging phase, China expects Qatar to push for a lasting peace agreement, he said.

The African Union and sub-regional organizations have long been working to end the conflict in eastern DRC. The international community should support a greater role for the United Nations and regional mechanisms, he said.

Eastern DRC has been plagued by conflict and violence for too long. The protracted crisis not only destabilizes the DRC but also undermines regional peace and development. Countries in the region are and always will be neighbors. As such, they should renounce the use of force, enhance cooperation and pursue joint development. The international community must continue to act impartially and responsibly to help restore peace in the region, Sun said.

China remains ready to continue working constructively to that end, he added. ■