China Daily/BEIJING -- China is closely following the conflict in Myanmar and calls on relevant parties to cease fire as soon as possible, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Friday.

Spokesperson Mao Ning also said that China calls on relevant parties to settle disputes in a peaceful manner through dialogue and consultation, avoid escalation of the situation, and take effective measures to ensure the security and stability of China-Myanmar border areas.

Mao made the remarks at a press conference when answering a question on recent military conflict between the Myanmar military and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA).