China regrets multinational air strikes in Libya

China's foreign ministry expressed regret today over the multinational air strikes in Libya, saying in a statement that it opposed the use of force in international relations.

"China has noted the latest developments in Libya and expresses regret over the military attacks on Libya," the statement said.

The statement did not call for a ceasefire in Libya, said China respected the north African country's "sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity."

"We hope Libya can restore stability as soon as possible and avoid further civilian casualties due to an escalation of armed conflict," it added.

Multinational forces led by France and Britain began bombarding Libya with missiles from air and sea yesterday to enforce a United Nations-mandated no-fly zone and protection of rebels from Moamer Kadhafi's forces.

China did not block the UN resolution authorising the operation, abstaining in the Security Council vote on the issue rather than using its veto.