China’s foreign ministry on Monday urged “all relevant parties” in Syria to seek a “political resolution” following Islamist-led rebels' takeover of Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad’s decades-long rule.

Over recent years, Beijing has bolstered ties with Syria, highlighted by Assad’s visit to China in 2023—one of his few state visits outside the Middle East since Syria’s civil war erupted in 2011.

Commenting on the developments, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that China is “closely monitoring the situation in Syria.” At a regular press briefing, she emphasized:
“We hope all relevant parties prioritize the fundamental interests of the Syrian people and work towards a political resolution to restore stability in the country.”

Mao refrained from confirming whether China had been in contact with Assad, who is reportedly in Russia with his family following his ouster.

Assad's 2023 visit to China marked the announcement of a "strategic partnership" between Syria and China, underscoring the deepening relationship between the two nations.

Amid escalating violence, the Chinese embassy in Damascus on Thursday advised its citizens to leave Syria “as soon as possible.” Meanwhile, the foreign ministry called on Syria’s new leadership on Sunday to “ensure the safety of Chinese institutions and personnel.”