China on Monday urged all sides in Syria to exercise "utmost restraint" to avoid causing more casualties.

"We believe the crisis in Syria should be addressed by opening up an inclusive political process with Syria playing the leading role," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiang Yu said at a press briefing.

The Syrian government should fulfill its commitment to reform, she said.

"All sides in Syria should participate in the political process in a constructive manner, resolve the current disputes through dialogue, and safeguard stability in the nation and the region," Jiang added.