X Channel to Zone in Zone Routing

A network element (NE) in a zone routing network, comprising:

• a memory configured to store a routing information base (RIB) identifying a first next-hop node for a first path in the network to reach a network controller of the network via a first communication node in the network, wherein the first communication node is directly associated with the network controller;
• a receiver configured to receive a first label-switched path (LSP) creation request message requesting creation of a first LSP through the network, wherein the first LSP creation request message indicates an ingress node of the first LSP;
• a processor coupled to the memory and the receiver, wherein the processor is configured to determine that the NE corresponds to the ingress node of the first LSP;
• and
• a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to send a first LSP creation response message towards the network controller via the first communication node according to the first path to indicate a creation status of the first LSP.