China has welcomed the announcement that Iran and the United States have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, and voiced support for mediation efforts by countries including Pakistan.

At a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said China has consistently called for an end to hostilities, and for disputes to be resolved through political and diplomatic means so as to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region.

Mao said China supports the mediation efforts undertaken by Pakistan and other countries, and that it has also made its own efforts in this regard.