China expressed "deep regrets" and "opposition" to Israel's approval of 1,100 new homes in East Jerusalem, urging the country to resume peace negotiations with Palestine as soon as possible.

China encourages Israel to act cautiously and take constructive approaches while actively coordinating with international efforts to resume negotiations, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a press briefing on Wednesday.

Israel's move came after the United States, the European Union, Russia and the United Nations, known as the Quartet of Middle East peace mediators, called on Israelis and Palestinians last Friday to resume peace negotiations within one month.

The Quartet also proposed that the parties present comprehensive proposals concerning territory and security within three months, make substantial progress within six months, and complete negotiations by the end of 2012.