BEIJING, Dec. 19 -- China will take all necessary measures to protect the safety of its nationals and organizations in South Sudan, a Chinese spokeswoman said on Thursday.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to give information on Chinese rescue work amid clashes in South Sudan.

Twelve Chinese workers who had been besieged in a sandpit along the Nile on the afternoon of Dec. 17 were rescued and properly settled the same day through the efforts of the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan, according to Hua.

The embassy has sent tips to all Chinese nationals and organizations in South Sudan through various channels, including the embassy website, and has asked them to keep close contact with the embassy.

Hua said all embassy staff are sticking to their posts, adding the Chinese Foreign Ministry and the embassy will pay close attention to the security situation in South Sudan and protect Chinese nationals and organizations through all necessary means.

China is concerned about the clashes and subsequent casualties in the South Sudan capital of Juba and is watching the situation closely, Hua said, adding China hopes all parties in South Sudan will address their differences through peaceful means and restore national peace and stability as soon as possible.

Violent clashes erupted late Sunday night in Juba. A presidential statement said the armed clashes were a military coup attempt planned by sacked vice-president Riek Machar.