China deeply surprised, dissatisfied with ROK side's remarks: FM

BEIJING - China is deeply surprised and dissatisfied with China-related remarks made by the Republic of Korea (ROK) side, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday.

Mao made the comment during a regular press briefing in response to a query about the remarks made by President of the ROK Yoon Suk-yeol in a televised address.

"China has taken note of this," said Mao, adding that China does not comment on the domestic affairs of the ROK, but firmly opposes the ROK side's attempt to relate its domestic issues with China, which hypes up groundless accusations of the so-called Chinese spies, and smears normal economic and trade cooperation.

"This is not conducive to the healthy and stable development of China-ROK relations," said the spokesperson.

"The Chinese government has always required Chinese citizens overseas to abide by local laws and regulations," Mao said, adding that no conclusion has been reached regarding the case mentioned by the ROK side, and the relevant departments of China and the ROK have maintained communication about it.

China once again urges the ROK side to handle cases involving Chinese citizens fairly, inform China of the handling of the cases in a timely manner, and effectively protect the safety and legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese citizens involved, Mao said.

On China's green industry, Mao said that its development is the result of global market demand, technological innovation and full competition, and this sector has also made important contributions to addressing climate change and improving global environmental governance.