China welcomed on Thursday a Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal between Israel and Hamas.

China hopes that the agreement can be effectively implemented to achieve a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, Foreign Minister spokesman Guo Jiakun told a daily news briefing.

Since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, China has consistently called for an immediate ceasefire to end the fighting and actively worked to cool down the situation, protect civilians, and carry out humanitarian relief efforts, Guo noted.

"China supports the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and will continue to make active efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and support post-war reconstruction in Gaza," he said.

Guo expressed the hope that all parties concerned can take the Gaza ceasefire as an opportunity to promote the easing of regional tensions.

China, together with the international community, will make unremitting efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East, he added.