(10 Jan 2024)
ASSOCIATED PRESS
MOFA Briefing
Spokesperson: Mao Ning
Date: 10 January 2024
Duration: 04 min 13 sec
1. We have noted that recently, the Constitutional Court of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) announced the final results of the presidential election, with the incumbent President Tshisekedi securing a dominant 73.47 percent of the vote, winning the election. What is China's comment on this? What does China expect for the future development of bilateral relations?
China has noted the announcement by the Constitutional Court of the DRC regarding the final results of the presidential election. We respect the choice of the people of the DRC and congratulate President Tshisekedi on his successful re-election. We believe that under President Tshisekedi's leadership, the DRC will achieve more accomplishments on the path of national development and revitalization.
China and the DRC are comprehensive strategic cooperative partners, and China attaches great importance to the development of bilateral relations. China is ready to work together with the DRC to uphold traditional friendship, deepen exchanges and cooperation within the framework of jointly building the Belt and Road and holding the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, and better benefit the people of both countries.
2. China launched a satellite yesterday, which appeared to trigger Taiwan authorities to issue an emergency alert. This caused a lot of concern among the public in Taiwan. Does China know in advance that the launch will trigger such an alert, and was it a deliberate time to coincide with the last few days of Taiwan’s election campaign?
First of all, this is not a question related to foreign affairs. I believe the purpose of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in misleading the public and creating panic is clear to everyone.
3. 47 countries issued a joint statement on Tuesday saying that Russia had launched ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea in Ukraine. The statement called for an immediate cessation of all military operations by Russia which violated United Nations Security Council resolutions. What’s your comment?
China has a consistent position on the Ukraine crisis. We believe that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solutions to resolve the crisis. We hope all parties will cease hostilities and work together to promote a de-escalation of the situation.
4. Regarding the situation in Ecuador, the Chinese Embassy there has said all its consular branches have suspended services to the public. Could you please provide information on whether any Chinese citizens have been affected by the situation in Ecuador? Are other consular agencies offering further assistance to Chinese citizens in Ecuador or planning any evacuations?
First, we are closely monitoring the changing security situation in Ecuador. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Embassy and Consulates in Ecuador to promptly activate the emergency mechanism for consular protection, verifying the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Ecuador and issuing security precaution advisories through various channels. As of now, we have not received any reports of casualties among Chinese citizens in Ecuador.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy in Ecuador will continue to closely monitor the local security situation, providing consular protection and assistance to Chinese citizens in a timely manner.
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