On June 7, 2012, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Weimin held a press conference.
Q: UN-AL Joint Special Envoy on the Syrian issue Annan will probably propose today the creation of a "contact group" on the Syrian issue with the purpose of laying the foundation for implementing the "peace plan" in Syria. What is China's position on that? Secondly, Russia proposed to hold an international conference on the Syrian issue with the participation of Iran, which was opposed by the US. What is China's position?
A: With regard to the "contact group" you mentioned, we need more information and will stay in communication and coordination with other Security Council members and Special Envoy Annan.
On the second question, we have noted Russia's relevant proposal. China is positive to any measures that can help ease current tensions in Syria and promote the political resolution. Relevant measures should focus on implementing Security Council resolutions and Special Envoy Annan's six-point proposal, pushing for real ceasefire and cessation of violence, and creating conditions for an early launch of the political process.
Q: Japanese Ambassador to China Uichiro Niwa talked in an interview about Tokyo Governor Shintaro Ishihara's pushing for the purchase of the Diaoyu Islands. What is China's comment?
A: The Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands have been an integral part of China's territory since ancient times. China has indisputable sovereignty over the islands. We are firmly opposed to any acts by the Japanese side to harm China's sovereignty.
Q: Violent conflicts are still going on in Syria and it seems that diplomatic efforts to solve the issue have failed. Under what conditions will China agree to external armed intervention in Syria?
A: The current situation in Syria is complex and grave. We always believe that Special Envoy Annan's mediation is the most viable and realistic way to push for the political resolution of the Syrian issue. It is hoped that parties concerned do not lose hope or give up easily. In the meantime, parties concerned should concretely honor the commitment of full ceasefire and cessation of violence, particularly prevent casualties of innocent civilians. Both the Syrian Government and opposition groups should take up responsibilities for that.
All parties concerned should continue to firmly support Special Envoy Annan's mediation efforts and the UN Supervision Mission in Syria in fulfilling its duty. As far as I know, Special Envoy Annan will report to the Security Council about his mediation today. China will strengthen communication and coordinate position with other parties.
China's position on the issue of external armed intervention is clear. We are resolutely opposed to external armed intervention in Syria which is unlikely to solve the issue fundamentally as proven by history time and again.
Q: Please brief us on the visit by Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin of Myanmar to China. What message will China send to Myanmar?
A: During the visit, Chinese leaders will meet with him and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi will hold talks with him. The two sides will exchange views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common interest. Besides Beijing, Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin will also visit Shanghai.
China and Myanmar are friendly neighbours. China hopes that the visit will further strengthen bilateral relations, deliver tangible benefits to the two peoples, and make positive contribution to regional peace, stability and development.