Q: Ukrainian President Poroshenko said on December 29 that he will meet with French President Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan on January 15th next year to discuss a way out of the Ukrainian crisis. What is China's comment on that?
A: China welcomes and supports the efforts made by the leaders of Russia, Germany, France and Ukraine in seeking a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis. We hope that all parties concerned can achieve a plan of political solution that is comprehensive, balanced and long-lasting on the basis of accommodating each side's legitimate interests and concerns so that Ukraine and the whole region can achieve peace, security, stability and development.
Q: Reports say that China has sent rescue teams to help search and locate the missing AirAsia flight QZ8501. Can you give us more details?
A: After consulting with the Indonesian government, the Chinese government has decided to send planes and ships to join in the search and rescue of the missing flight. At present, a naval frigate that is on a regular patrol mission in the South China Sea has been mobilized to sail towards the waters where the flight lost contact. Airforce planes are also making relevant preparation and coordinating with countries concerned to adjust air routes. China is in close contact with Indonesia to get the latest development of search and rescue. China's maritime search and rescue teams are ready and can be dispatched to relevant waters to assist searching at any moment.
We will keep close tabs on the situation, and provide further assistance in light of the needs of the Indonesian side.
Q: There are reports that two Chinese navy vessels approached the Diaoyu Islands as close as 70 km to the island in mid December. Also, three Chinese coastguard vessels entered territorial waters off the Diaoyu Islands this morning. What is China's comment on that?
A: The patrolling and training of Chinese navy vessels in relevant waters conform with international law and practices. We hope relevant countries can respect the freedom of navigation and overflight that Chinese naval vessels and airplanes are entitled to. .
On your second question, the Diaoyu Islands and the affiliated islands are China's inherent territory. The patrolling of China's coastguard vessels in territorial waters off the Diaoyu Islands is exercising sovereignty in accordance with law and is an official act.
