Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei held a press conference on March 21, 2013.
Q: ROK TV stations and financial institutions were under hacker attacks yesterday. Relevant ROK department reportedly said that hackers used a Chinese IP address in the attacks, but the ROK side was still tracing the source of the hackers. What is China's comment? Will China assist the ROK to investigate?
A: We have noted relevant reports and have repeatedly pointed out that cyber attack is a global issue. Being anonymous, transnational and deceptive, it is hackers' usual practice to steal other countries' IP addresses for cyber attacks. China always believes that it is the common challenge faced by the international community to deal with cyber attacks and safeguard cyber security. We call for establishing a peaceful, secure, open and cooperative cyberspace and formulating relevant rules to serve the common interests of the international community. China stands ready to carry out constructive cooperation with all countries to safeguard peace and security of the cyberspace on the basis of mutual respect and trust.
Q: It is reported that the Japan-China Economic Association delegation arrived in Beijing today for a visit, which has been delayed for six months due to the tension in Japan-China relations. What is China's expectation of this visit?
A: It is learnt that the Japan-China Economic Association delegation is on their annual routine visit to China at the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and will have discussions and communication with relevant Chinese economic sectors.
Japan's illegal "purchase" of the Diaoyu Islands last September has led China-Japan relations to a seriously difficult situation. China stands ready to maintain normal exchanges with various circles of Japan, including the economic sector, and make joint efforts to push bilateral relations to overcome the difficulties and gradually return to the track of healthy and stable development.
Q: Japanese media reported that Japan and the US would formulate a "joint military plan" to deal with "possible crises" on the Diaoyu Islands. What is China's comment?
A: China expresses grave concern over relevant reports. The Diaoyu Islands are China's inherent territory. The Chinese government has the confidence and capability to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity. No outside pressure could shake the firm will and determination of the Chinese government and people to safeguard national territorial sovereignty.
Q: Bangladesh President Zillur Rahman passed away on March 20. What is China's comment?
A: President Rahman was a veteran leader of Bangladesh. He attached importance to developing relations with China and made significant contributions to promoting friendship between the two peoples and bilateral practical cooperation across the board. President Xi Jinping has sent a message of condolences to Acting President Abdul Hamid to deeply lament the death of President Rahman. The Chinese government and people cherish their traditional friendship with Bangladesh, and stand ready to work with Bangladesh to constantly deepen China-Bangladesh comprehensive partnership of cooperation to benefit the two countries and peoples.