On May 10, 2012, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei held a press conference.
Q: It is reported that the Spokesperson of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs recently remarked on the Huangyan Island issue that the Philippines was trying to make new diplomatic initiatives in the hope of relaxing the situation. How does China comment?
A: We have noticed the above remarks and as well as the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs' restoration of diplomatic contact with the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines. China has reiterated its position to the Philippines, demanding it to respect China's sovereignty over the Huangyan Island and refrain from any acts that may complicate or magnify the situation. We will closely monitor the situation and the actual actions of the Philippines.
Q: It is reported that the Philippines will stage a large-scale anti-China protest in the country tomorrow. Some Chinese travel agencies have also suspended organizing tours to the Philippines. Has the Chinese Foreign Ministry taken corresponding measures too?
A: The Philippines has kept making strong-worded remarks on the Huangyan Island issue to play up public feelings, which seriously undermines the atmosphere of China-Philippines relations. The Philippines has also incited domestic public and overseas nationals to stage anti-China protests. Such behaviours have triggered strong reaction and concerns from the Chinese people at home and abroad. We hope the Philippines will not do further damage to bilateral relations.
China is highly concerned over the safety of Chinese nationals and institutions in the Philippines. We demand the Philippines to take effective measures to earnestly protect the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions in the Philippines.
Q: It is reported that the UN monitors to Syria were hit by bomb attacks in the southern city of Dera. How does China comment?
A: China condemns the attacks. We hope all parties in Syria will bear in mind the interests of the country and the people, concretely implement their commitment of ending violence, cooperate with and support the work of the monitors, ensure their safety and launch a political dialogue as soon as possible. China has sent people to join the monitoring mission, and will continue to support and cooperate with it.
Q: Could you update us on former Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing's visit to the DPRK?
A: At the invitation of the Central Committee of the DPRK-China Friendship Association of North Korea, Chairman Li Zhaoxing of the China Association for International Friendly Contact led a delegation to the DPRK for a good-will visit from May 7. Chairman Kim Yong-nam of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK met with his delegation on May 8. Relevant information has been released.