China to assist Panamanian students in Taiwan

BEIJING -- China Thursday promised to assist Panamanian students in Taiwan affected by the breaking off of diplomatic relations between Panama and Taiwan.

Panama established relations with China Tuesday, ending relations with Taiwan. "China will enhance educational and cultural exchanges with Panama," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a regular news briefing Thursday.

"We are aware some Panamanian students who have received scholarships from Taiwan may experience difficulties. We welcome them to study in the Chinese mainland and are willing to offer timely and necessary assistance," Lu said.

Lu also promised assistance for other Panamanian students in Taiwan while respecting their own decisions.

In the future, China will provide annual scholarships for students from Panama, according to Lu.

Recent media reports said that Taiwan missions in some countries are under pressure from China to change names and use Taipei rather than the Republic of China or Taiwan in their names.

In response to questions about such reports, Lu said the Chinese government highly appreciates relevant countries dealing with Taiwan-related issues in line with the one-China policy.

Adhering to the one-China policy is the general trend within the international community and is a precondition and political foundation for China to develop diplomatic relations and friendly cooperation with other countries, Lu said.