Burhan Ghalioun, head of the opposition Syrian National Council (SNC), will visit China from May 6 to 9 at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin confirmed the visit during a routine press briefing on Friday.

Ghalioun will meet with Foreign Ministry officials during his visit, Liu said.

When asked whether China has changed its position on the Syrian issue, as well as its attitude toward the SNC, Liu said China's stance on the issue has been consistent.

China has always believed in safeguarding the purpose and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations, as well as peace and stability in the Middle East and the fundamental interests of the Syrian people, he said.

China has maintained communication with both the Syrian government and opposition groups, including the SNC, in order to promote dialogue and ease tensions, he said.

He said China will continue to play a positive and constructive role in promoting a fair, peaceful and proper resolution for the Syrian issue.