2 Chinese abducted in Pakistan are 'probably' dead

Two Chinese nationals abducted in Pakistan last month are probably dead, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Friday, vowing to continue to use various channels to gain and verify information.

"According to the latest information provided by Pakistan, the two kidnapped Chinese citizens have probably been killed," Hua told a daily news briefing. She added that China is gravely concerned about the case.

She said the two people were not a couple, as previously reported, and they come from different Chinese provinces, but details were still being investigated.

According to Hua, departments of the Chinese government and the Chinese embassy in Pakistan immediately launched an emergency response mechanism after the kidnapping and worked closely with Pakistan.

"China is firmly opposed to and strongly condemns terrorism in any form. We support Pakistan's efforts to fight terrorism and safeguard national security and stability," she said.

China will continue to strengthen anti-terrorism cooperation with the international community, including Pakistan, to maintain peace and stability in the region and the world, Hua added.

The Chinese embassy in Pakistan released a security alert last month after the kidnapping, reminding Chinese citizens not to visit Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province.

It also urged local Chinese nationals and organizations to evacuate as soon as possible, and to turn to the embassy for help if necessary.

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