China slams Clinton's June 4 comments

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-06-05 07:20

China Thursday expressed deep dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's remarks on the 20th anniversary of the events of June 4.

"As to the political turmoil and problems that happened in the late 1980s, the Communist Party of China and the Chinese government have already made a clear conclusion," Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a regular press conference in response to a question about a statement released by Clinton on Wednesday.

He said China had made great advances in economic and social development since the country began its reforms and opened up 30 years ago.

Facts had proven that the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics suited the national conditions of China, complied with the fundamental interests of the overwhelming majority of the Chinese people, and reflected the aspirations of all Chinese people, Qin said.

The remarks from the US disregarded the facts and made random accusations against the Chinese government, Qin said, adding that Clinton's comments violated basic norms governing international relations and principles set forth in the three China-US joint communiqus and grossly interfered in China's internal affairs.

"We urge the US to put aside its political prejudices and correct its wrong-doings so as to avoid interfering with and damaging Sino-US relations," Qin said.

Afghan FM to visit China

Afghan Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta will pay an official visit to China from June 9 to 12 at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Yang Jiechi.

Qin said Spanta and Yang will exchange views on China-Afghanistan relations, the reconstruction of Afghanistan and international and regional issues.

Qin said China has offered assistance worth $170 million since 2002. China gave 50 million yuan to the country last year.

"We will continue to fulfill our commitment and provide further assistance to Afghanistan within our ability, so as to make an active contribution to facilitating its reconstruction process," he said.

At the invitation of Yang, Spanta made his first visit to China as foreign minister in August 2007.

Xinhua