China to remain in Africa despite attacks
27 April 2007
Beijing said the safety of Chinese personnel is being "evaluated" but the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its postion that recent attacks will not stop investments in Africa. An attack by a separatist rebel group in Ethiopia on a Chinese-run oil facility Tuesday left nine Chinese and 65 Ethiopians dead. Another seven Chinese were abducted and one injured. "The Chinese side is working to rescue the abducted Chinese workers," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao. "At the same time, relevant departments are evaluating safety for Chinese companies investing overseas with a view to providing security guarantees for them." Quoted in state media, Liu went on to say that the policy of investing abroad is likely to remain despite the attacks. "This is our policy and it will not change." The group Ogaden National Liberation Front claimed responbility for the attack. China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, the company that runs the attacked facility, said it would not stop working in Africa.