China strongly condemns the explosion that occurred in Jakarta of Indonesia, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said in Beijing Tuesday.

Kong made the remark in response to a question regarding an explosion Tuesday afternoon at a five-star hotel in the embassy district of Jakarta, which resulted in at least 10 deaths and nearly 100 injuries.

Kong said the Chinese government objects to terrorism in any form. China strongly condemns the bombing in Jakarta and extends its condolences to the victims and their families, the spokesman added.

As a friendly neighbor of Indonesia, China will, as always, support Indonesia's persistent efforts to crack down on terrorism and maintain domestic stability.

Kong said there are so far no Chinese citizens among the casualties in the explosion, and further investigation is being carried out by the Chinese embassy in Indonesia.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2003)