China strongly condemns terrorist attack in Mali

BEIJING -- China on Wednesday condemned the terrorist attack in Mali in which a Chinese peacekeeper was killed and four others were injured.

According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying,the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) was attacked Wednesday morning.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and express our heartfelt sympathy to the wounded and the families of the victims," Hua said.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council are taking the attack very seriously, Hua said, noting that emergency response and follow-up measures had been launched immediately.

As the attack targeted UN peacekeepers, Hua said, it was a terrible, intolerable crime.

China strongly condemns the terrorist attack and has asked the Mali government and the UN to investigate the incident immediately, Hua said.

Hua reiterated that the Chinese government firmly supports international peace and stability in Africa.

At present, more than 2,400 Chinese peacekeepers are operating in seven African task areas including Mali, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Hua said.

China will continue to participate in international peacekeeping operations and contribute to peace and security in Africa.