China issues security warning to nationals in France

The Department of Consular Affairs at the Foreign Ministry issued a safety alert on Sunday to Chinese nationals in France, urging them to raise security awareness and take precautions as violent clashes persist in the country.

A bus carrying 41 Chinese tourists was attacked by a group of black-clad rioters in Marseille on Thursday as violent and fiery protests gripped many cities across France in the wake of the shooting of a 17-year-old by police.

The Chinese Consulate-General in Marseille coordinated with the tourist group to call police and treat the injured, and lodged representations with the French side, demanding Paris to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and their properties, according to the statement of the Foreign Ministry.

All tourists have left France to return home, the statement said.

The Foreign Ministry and the Chinese embassy in France again reminded Chinese citizens in France to pay close attention to the security situation, avoid areas where demonstrations and violence were taking place, the statement said.

The ministry and the embassy called on Chinese nationals in France to take practical measures to strengthen safety and take security precautions, while urging those on temporary visits to France to stay vigilant and cautious when going out.

The statement also offered emergency numbers:

French Police: (+33)17

The consular protection hotline of the Foreign Ministry of China: + 86-10-123-08 / + 86-10-6561-2308

Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese embassy in Paris: +33-1537-588-40

Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese Consulate-General in Marseille: +33-6719-058-35

Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese Consulate-General in Strasbourg: +33-6099-944-64

Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese Consulate-General in Lyon: +33-7856-209-31