C O N F I D E N T I A L BEIJING 003080 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 
08/11/2028 TAGS: PREL, PGOV, MOPS, MARR, RS, GG, CH, UNSC SUBJECT: 
CHINESE POSITION ON THE CONFLICT IN SOUTH OSSETIA REF: USUN NEW YORK 720
AND 721 Classified By: Political Minister Counselor Aubrey Carlson. 
Reasons 1. 4 (b/d). 

1. (C) Chinese MFA International Organizations and 
Conferences Department UN Affairs Division Deputy Director Sun Xiaobo 
told PolOff August 11 that China is concerned about the military 
conflict in South Ossetia and appeals to both parties to show restraint 
and start negotiations. He said China had expressed this position during
August 8-10 open and closed meetings of the UN Security Council 
(reftels). Asked about Russia's military action and response to 
Georgia's offer of a cease-fire, Sun said that it is important for both 
parties to de-escalate the violence and reach a settlement. Sun's 
comments mirrored those of MFA Spokesperson Qin Gang, who said in a 
statement posted on the MFA website on August 10 that "China calls upon 
relevant parties to keep restraint and cease fire immediately. We 
sincerely hope relevant parties resolve their disputes peacefully 
through dialogue, so as to safeguard regional peace and stability." 
RANDT