China has appointed a special envoy for the Syrian issue, indicating a more active role in addressing the conflict.

Xie Xiaoyan, former ambassador to Iran and Ethiopia as well as representative to the African Union, has been appointed to the post, foreign ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said at a regular news briefing on Tuesday.

"Xie is a veteran diplomat with great experience … He knows Middle East affairs very well and will excellently fulfill his duties," Hong said.

The settlement of the Syrian issue has come to a point where the cease-fire agreement has been upheld in general, humanitarian assistance has moved forward continuously, and peace talks in Geneva between the Syrian government and the opposition have been resumed, thanks to the concerted efforts of the international community, Hong noted.

"By appointing the Special Envoy for the Syrian issue, China will better promote peace talks and negotiations, contribute Chinese wisdom and proposals, and enhance communication and coordination with relevant parties more effectively, so that China can continue to play a constructive role in seeking a final proper settlement to the Syrian issue," he added.

Syrian government troops and the opposition are implementing a cease-fire agreement, and humanitarian assistance is progressing. The latest round of Syrian peace talks wrapped up on Thursday in Geneva.

The spokesperson added that as a permanent member of the Security Council, China has been making positive and constructive efforts in pushing for a proper settlement of the Syrian issue. China believes that a political settlement represents the only way out of the Syrian issue and the UN should play a leading role in this regard. China supports the peace-making efforts made by Staffan de Mistura, UN Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria and has come up with relevant ideas and measures to resolve the Syrian issue.