France on Thursday called on all parties in the Central African Republic (CAR) to join peace talks in Libreville at the invitation of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

"On the political level, the negotiation is needed more than ever. We urge the parties to respond promptly to the invitation of the Economic Community of Central African States to initiate peace talks provided in Libreville next week," said Philippe Lalliot, French foreign ministry spokesman during a press briefing.

The peace talks, organized by the Economic Community of Central African States, could start on Jan. 10, 2013.

"We remain focused and are in contact with all parties to contribute to a lasting political settlement of the current crisis in the Central African Republic," Lalliot added.

While the military situation in the CAR remained stable recently, continued vigilance was still necessary, the French diplomat warned.

On Monday, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius urged CAR officials and rebels to launch swift talks to stop fighting and forge a coalition government, saying that talks "is a priority more that ever to end hostilities."

French President Francois Hollande on the same day had also talked over telephone with CAR President Francois Bozize, calling for the opening of a dialogue between the CAR authorities and all parties, including the rebellion "as soon as possible."

France had sent 180 additional soldiers to its former colony where 420 national servicemen were already deployed in the country for peace mission.

So far rebels have halted their advance on the capital Bangui and agreed to start peace talks in a move to avoid clashes with a regional multinational force patrolling the buffer zone.

Bozize had offered to talk with the rebels and promised to form a coalition government with them on condition that he would not leave office before his terms ends in 2016.