China on Saturday expressed deep concern over the situation in Thailand after bloody clashes Friday night between Thai troops and the anti-government "red shirts."

"As a friendly neighbor of Thailand, we are deeply concerned and worried over the situation in the country," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu said in response to a reporter's question.

Ma said China expected the parties involved to restrain themselves and work together toward a resumption of social stability in Thailand at an early date.

Thai troops started to seal off the "red shirts" fortified encampment late Thursday, prompting a series of violent clashes.

The anti-government "red shirts" protest in central Bangkok started on March 12 with the Rathchaprason Intersection in central Bangkok as their main rally site.