China expresses concerns at ongoing violence in Myanmar

China on Friday expressed its grave concerns about the ongoing violence in Myanmar and called on all parties concerned to strive together to "prevent the situation from getting out of control."

Hua Chunying, a spokesperson of China's Foreign Ministry, made the remarks following the UN Security Council's strong condemnation on the use of violence against peaceful protesters in Myanmar and the deaths of hundreds of civilians late on Thursday.

She hoped the international community would refrain from "overstepping its mandate and exerting pressure arbitrarily" when helping mediating on the issue.

The British-drafted press statement approved by all 15 council members after intense negotiations that began on Wednesday expressed "deep concern at the rapidly deteriorating situation" in Myanmar and reiterated the council's call on the military "to exercise utmost restraint."

Hua also urged the US to "fully understand" the sensitivity of the Taiwan issue and avoid the "dangerous practice" of the administration of former President Donald Trump.

This came after the US State Department spokesman Ned Price reaffirmed the US government's commitment to developing ties with Taiwan by facilitating exchanges of visits to boost unofficial contacts between the two sides.

The US' ambassador to Palau John Hennessey-Niland also joined Palau President Surangel Whipps's visit to Taiwan earlier this week.

It is a further sign of Washington's support for Taiwan, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations between the two.

Separately, Hua said China will "actively participate" in an upcoming virtual meeting of the participants in the Iran nuclear deal, which was announced by the European Union.

She once again urged the US to lift all sanctions against Iran, which she claimed is a "necessary requirement" for the US to return to the agreement.

Friday's virtual meeting of officials from Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and Iran comes as the US explores ways to rejoin the deal that Trump withdrew from in 2018.