United Nations, Sep 20 (IANS): China, which has been actively involved in peace-building and reconstruction in Afghanistan, will continue its contribution to the country, a Chinese envoy to the UN said Thursday.

Liu Jieyi, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, made the statement at a UN Security Council open debate, reported Xinhua .

"Afghanistan faces a heavy and arduous task for restoring stability and reconstructing the country. Recently, thanks to the efforts by the government and its people, Afghanistan has registered noticeable progress in peace-building and reconstruction," Liu said, adding that its transitional period has entered "a critical stage".

The envoy said China welcomes the recent adoption of the electoral law and structural law in Afghanistan.

"We hope that all Afghan parties will continue their dialogues and consultations, properly tackle their differences, steadily promote the preparations for the related elections so as to ensure their success."

"China supports the national reconciliation that is led and owned by Afghans ...We support the active role played by the High Peace Council in promoting national reconciliation. We welcome Pakistan and other regional countries in rendering further support.

China will host the fourth ministerial meeting of the Istanbul Process next year. "We will further enhance the efforts to promote the cooperation among regional countries and contribute to the peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region," Liu said.