Q: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said at the annual press conference on January 21 that the partnership between Russia and China in the international arena gained solid ground as an important element in safeguarding global and regional stability and security. How does China evaluate the current China-Russia relations? What kinds of arrangements has China made on the celebration activities for the 70th anniversary of the victory of World War II?
A: China attaches great importance to the development of China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, and sets great value on Russia's positive attitude towards expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation in various fields. We are willing to work with the Russian side towards the same direction, maintain the sound momentum of developing bilateral ties at a high level, promote common development and prosperity, and safeguard peace, security and stability of the region and the world.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and World War II. As two main theaters of World War II in Asia and Europe, China and Russia will jointly hold a series of celebration activities, including arrangements for leaders of both sides to attend each other's celebration and commemoration activities.
Q: Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah died on January 23. Does China have anything to say about that?
A: King Abdullah was a great leader who committed his life to promoting Saudi Arabia's national development and safeguarding peace and stability of the Gulf region in the Middle East. He enjoyed high prestige both at home and abroad. As a good friend of the Chinese people, he attached importance to developing China-Saudi Arabia relations, and made important contributions to deepening bilateral friendship and cooperation. China expresses deep condolences at the passing of King Abdullah, and sincere sympathies to the government and people of Saudi Arabia.
Q: US State Department Spokesperson said on January 21 that the US refused the DPRK's offer to resume Six-Party Talks with no preconditions. Reports say that heads of delegations of the ROK, the US and Japan will meet on January 28 in Tokyo. After their meeting, the head of the US delegation will come to China to meet Wu Dawei, China's Special Representative for the Korean Peninsula affairs. Can you confirm that? What is China's comment on that?
A: To move forward the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and safeguard peace and stability of the Peninsula serves the common interests of relevant parties. It is also a responsibility shared by all. Under the current circumstances, parties concerned should work together, pool wisdom, return to the track of dialogue and consultation as soon as possible, and create conditions for the resumption of the Six-Party Talks. We hope relevant dialogue and contact can create conditions for moving forward an early resumption of the Six-Party Talks.
China has been in close contact with the relevant parties of the Six-Party Talks. As for the visit of the US head of delegation, we will release relevant information in due course.
Q: First, the Islamic State gave a 72-hour period for the payment of ransom for 2 Japanese hostages. Now, the time is up and the result is still unclear. What is China's comment on that? Second, reports say that Malaysia's Interior Minister held talks with the leading officials of China's Public Security Department. They revealed that China has information that over 300 Chinese people travelled to join the Islamic State via Malaysia. Can you confirm that?
A: On your first question, China opposes all forms of terrorism and extremist actions directed at innocent civilians. We hope for the safe release of the hostages.
On your second question, I would refer you to competent authorities. China's position on opposing and combating all forms of terrorism is very clear. Terrorism is a common enemy faced by the international community, and has to be fought back with strenghtened cooperation of the international community. China is willing to deepen practical cooperation with the international community in counter-terrorism and law enforcement. All countries should earnestly follow the No. 2178 resolution of the UN Security Council, jointly crack down on the cross-border movement of terrorists, and safeguard peace, security and stability of the region and the world.
Q: China will hold celebration activities for the 70th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. When will these activities be held? Who will be invited to attend the celebration? Will there be a military parade?
A: This year marks the 70th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. China will hold celebration and commemoration activities so that people will better remember the history and cherish peace. As for in what form and when these activities will take place as well as the guest list, I have no information to offer at the moment.
