BEIJING - Syria has taken a "major step" on easing the current tension concerning the country by showing support to a Russian proposal to place its chemical weapons stockpiles under international control, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said on Wednesday.

"China welcomes the Syrian government's latest statement. We hope all parties can seize the opportunity, respond positively to the statement and push for a proper solution to the issue of chemical weapons in Syria through political and diplomatic means," Hong told a daily news briefing.

Syrian Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi stressed support on Tuesday to the Russian initiative in order to avoid a possible US strike against Syria.