BEIJING, Feb. 24 -- A spokeswoman for China's Foreign Ministry said on Monday that it hopes parties involved in the the unrest in Ukraine can settle differences through political consultation and restore political stability as well as social order as soon as possible.

Hua Chunying made the remarks at a regular press briefing, saying China is paying close attention to political developments in Ukraine after the country issued a warrant for the arrest of ousted President Viktor Yanukovych.

She said China hopes parties in Ukraine can take peaceful means under the legal framework and settle differences through political consultation.

She noted that China will not interfere in Ukraine's internal affairs and will respect its people's choices based on its own national conditions.

China is willing to continue developing strategic partnerships under the principle of equality and mutual benefit, she added.