China on Tuesday said it takes a cautious and responsible
approach to arms exports and strictly observes domestic laws and
international obligations.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a regular news
conference that China strictly adheres to three principles in arms
exports, namely the weapons will contribute to the recipient
country's due defense capability, the weapons will not affect peace
and stability of relevant regions, and non-interference in the
internal affairs of recipient countries.
The spokesman emphasized that China only exports arms to
sovereign states, and no arms can be transferred to third countries
without the Chinese government's permission.
Qin's remarks came in response to a question concerning
Chinese-made weapons being used by Taliban fighters in Afghanistan
and insurgents in Iraq.
"I believe the largest quantities of weapons used there are not
from China," Qin said.
In response to another question about a Chinese citizen
kidnapped in Niger, Qin said the Chinese government is making every
effort to save the hostage, who is "safe".
A Niger rebel group, named the Movement of Niger People for
Justice, claimed responsibility for the kidnapping in a statement
on Saturday. It said that the kidnapping was in response to the
company's policy of employing people from the capital rather than
locals.
"We have urged the Niger government to take effective efforts to
ensure the security of Chinese citizens and companies," Qin
said.
(Xinhua News Agency July 11, 2007)