China's humanitarian aid to Sudan, exceeding 100 million yuan ($15 million), as well as a sympathetic understanding of African problems, have added to the country's influence in the region, Ismail said.

The presidential advisor also expressed his gratitude to Chinese peacekeeping forces in Darfur, which is "doing a great job" by providing technology and experience to the United Nations-African Union (UN-AU) mission, on top of delivering humanitarian aid. "You really should see the difference they are making," Ismail said.

Darfur is now experiencing peace, while political negotiations will resume in weeks when the new envoy designated by the UN and AU is familiar with the region, he said. Many armed factions in the area are also negotiating with the government for peace, he added.

"That will greatly influence the Darfur peace process," Ismail said.

"We believe the Darfur issue has entered the road to settlement."

Ismail, who is also a leading member of the National Congress Party, Sudan's ruling party, is on a five-day, inter-party visit to Beijing at the invitation of the Communist Party of China. He will leave China on Saturday.

(China Daily July 10, 2008)