China expressed concern on Friday over the recent detention of Igor Popovic, assistant director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija of the government of Serbia, and called for his safe release.

Speaking at a regular news briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Beijing has been following reports that Popovic had been detained by Kosovo authorities — a move that has prompted statements from France and the EU.

"We are following the arrest of Mr Igor Popovic and noted the statements issued by the French Foreign Ministry and the EU. We hope to see the safe release of Mr Popovic," Guo said.

Popovic was detained on July 18 during the commemoration of the anniversary of the killing of Serbs in Rahovec, Kosovo.

Last week, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a response to the media stating that France hopes that Igor Popovic will be released as soon as possible.

"China respects Serbia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and believes that the security and lawful rights and interests of the Serbs in Kosovo should be safeguarded," Guo said.

The spokesman also urged all parties to continue to engage in practical and constructive dialogue within the framework of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, actively seek a lasting solution to the Kosovo issue, and refrain from taking unilateral actions that may lead to tensions.?