China is once again pressing for stability in Libya and a resolution through dialogue, following the multinational military air strikes. The statement comes at the regular press conference by the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Spokeswomen Jiang Yu says China expresses regret over the military strike against Libya, adding that China always disapproves of the use of force in international relations. She also urges all sides to adhere to the UN Charter. Multinational warplanes hit Libya for a fifth night on Thursday, causing major destruction to a military base.

A number of civilians have been reportedly wounded in the air strikes in eastern Tripoli. The US said it wants to give up its lead role and is calling for NATO to play an important part in the command of the operation.

It says the Libyan government should institute an immediate cease-fire, withdraw its military forces from cities and Moammar Gaddafi should end the crisis by giving up power. France says the operation has been successful, and it may take only days or weeks to destroy the Libyan leader's military - instead of months.