China on Friday urged Malian authorities to take tangible measures to safeguard the security and lawful rights of Chinese agencies and citizens in the West African country.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a regular press briefing, in reference to worry over unrest in Mali following a coup on Thursday.

"China attaches great importance to the security of Chinese agencies and citizens in Mali," said Hong, noting the Foreign Ministry has issued a security alert on its website.

The spokesman said the Chinese Embassy in Mali has been contacting Chinese agencies and citizens in the country via various means and reminding them to strengthen security.

"So far, China has not received casualty reports of Chinese citizens," he added.

The National Committee for Redressment of Democracy and Restoration of the State announced through Malian radio and television at 4:40 a.m. local time on Thursday that they had toppled Malian President Amadou Toumani Toure.

"China has been closely following the evolution of the situation in Mali," said Hong, noting China opposes the anti-constitutional seizure of power from the democratically elected government.

He called on relevant parties in Mali to proceed based on the fundamental interests of the nation and its people, and restore order as soon as possible, so as to safeguard its national stability.

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