China on Thursday expressed concerns over the worsening security situation in northern Mali, urging parties involved to address their political disputes through dialogue and other peaceful means.

"We are following the situation in northern Mali, and are worried about the security and deteriorating humanitarian situation there," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular press briefing.

China supports the efforts of the Malian government to maintain unity, territorial integrity and national solidarity, he said.

Hong urged parties involved to properly settle their disputes through dialogue and other peaceful means, and resume national peace and stability at an early date.

China appreciates and supports the positive efforts of relevant countries and the international community in promoting the resumption of peace and stability in Mali, the spokesman added.

Northern Mali has been a scene of deadly confrontations between the separatist National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) and the Malian army since Jan. 17.

The confrontations in Mali's northern region have so far led to the displacement of over 30,000 people.

The MNLA is the latest formation of the rebel movement seeking the independence of Azawad land composed of the three northern regions of Timbuktu, Gao and Kidal.

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