China on Friday condemned the latest civilian killings in Syria, but refused to back a call by UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan to increase the pressure on the regime of President Assad.

Annan told the UN Security Council on Thursday he feared the crisis would "spiral out of control" unless there is more international pressure on Assad.

His remarks came after the reported killing of dozens of civilians by pro-regime militiamen in the village of al-Qubayr, the second massacre in a fortnight, and the targeting of UN monitors trying to reach the scene.

Foreign ministry spokesman Liu Weimin was asked repeatedly whether China supported Annan's call at a briefing on Friday, but did not directly answer the question.

"China is concerned over the developments in Syria," Liu said.

"China strongly condemns the brutal act of civilian casualties, especially those targeted at women and children. We hope the perpetrators will be brought to justice at an early date."

China has repeatedly said it opposes foreign intervention and forced regime change in Syria, and has urged both sides in the conflict to implement Annan's peace plan. [AFP]