China urged South Sudan to address the renewed violence in the country immediately, saying a ceasefire and political talks should be in order.

Last week, violence erupted once again in South Sudan, an oil-rich country heavily dependent on Chinese investment. The renewed clashes between government forces and local rebels in Unity State came days after the United Nations (UN) warned of sanctions if either party broke a ceasefire agreement signed in May, Reuters detailed.

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Far from its usual role in the international community, China took on a diplomatic position in South Sudan.

On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his South Sudan counterpart Barnaba Marial Benjamin in Beijing. Wang told Benjamin that South Sudan needs to implement a ceasefire immediately to restore peace and political stability in the country.

Wang also said conducting political talks is the only way that South Sudan can "achieve national reconciliation." The Chinese official conveyed hope for a solution amenable to all the parties involved in this political crisis.

Benjamin, on the other hand, responded to Wang's suggestion positively. He said South Sudan is willing to exert the necessary effort to halt violence in the country.

Diplomats said the renewed fighting will further weaken the shaky ceasefire signed in May. South Sudan failed to meet its 60-day deadline on August 10 to establish an interim government but they are still conducting negotiations.

This month, U.S. ambassador to the UN Samantha Power headed a Security Council delegation in a visit to South Sudan. She warned President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar that they could be sanctioned if they violated the peace talks.

Both sides previously received sanctions from the U.S. and European Union for violating a ceasefire brokered in January. The U.S. also said it might add more sanctions if either party broke the May truce.

TagsSouth Sudan, Reuters, Barnaba Marial Benjamin, Unity State, Samantha Power, Riek Machar, Salva Kiir, European Union, U.S.