China hopes that the Darfur issue can be solved soon in order to achieve comprehensive, lasting peace in the troubled western Sudanese region, Chinese special envoy Liu Guijin said on Tuesday.

Liu, who arrived in Darfur Tuesday on a fact-finding tour, visited Fashir, the capital of North Darfur State, and Nyala, the capital of South Darfur State.

At meetings with governors of the two states and local representatives, Liu said during the visit he felt the situation in Darfur is largely stabilized, which embodies the Sudanese government's efforts for peace in the region.

Local officials praised the Chinese government for its humanitarian aid and efforts to help resolve the Darfur issue.

The Chinese government's appointment of a special envoy on Darfur and his visit to Darfur demonstrates Beijing's concern over Darfur and its sincerity to help solve the issue, they said.

Liu arrived in Khartoum Saturday for a visit to Sudan.

(Xinhua News Agency May 23, 2007)