On the afternoon of October 31st, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao held a regular press conference.

Liu: Good afternoon. We can start with questions directly.

Q: It's reported that the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission criticized China's foreign exchange policy and IPR problems in its 2006 annual report to be released shortly. Do you have any comment?

A: My understanding is that the report is yet to be released officially. I haven't been able to see the whole text of the report. But we have taken note some press coverage of its content. We hope that the US Congress should do more in the interest of China-US relations, view China and bilateral relations from an objective and just perspective instead of making blind and unjust comments. It should play a positive role for the development of the constructive cooperation between the two countries. We are following up the issue and will have an official reaction then.

Q: Japan asserted that it would not allow the DPRK to return to the Six Party Talks as a nuclear state. Do you agree?

A: We have on many occasions expounded on our position on DPRK's nuclear test. We hold that it is imperative to resume the Talks at an early date so as to realize the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and address the concerns of relevant parties. The resumption of the talks itself will benefit the relaxation of the situation of the Peninsula. We will continue to work with all parties including Japan to make active contribution to the resumption of the talks.

Q: Reports say that China suspended its oil export to the DPRK. Can you confirm?

A: Normal trade and business between China and the DPRK are still going on regularly. You seem to try to connect this report with the nuclear test. But let me remind you, the DPRK did not have any nuclear test in September.

Q: It is reported that a director of the Taipei office of the US AIT said on October 26th that Taiwan needs to pass a robust defense budget in this fall's legislative session. Do you have any comment?

A: The US weapons sales to Taiwan violate the commitment made by the US Government in the three Joint Communiqué, the August 17th Communiqué in particular. It undermines China's national security and our great cause of peaceful reunification, which the Chinese government and people have always resolutely opposed. We have made solemn representations with the US on the erroneous remarks made by the director of the AIT.

China urges the US to strictly abide by the commitment repeatedly reiterated by President Bush and the US Government to the One China Policy, the three Joint communiqués and the opposition to "Taiwan Independence". The US should stop weapon sales to Taiwan and its military links with Taiwan. It should refrain from sending any wrong signals to the Taiwan secessionist forces and take concrete actions to maintain peace and stability of the Taiwan Straits and the overall interest of China-US relations.

Q: China's Foreign Reserve is going to exceed $1000 billion. Some people are deeply worried about that. Can China assure the international community that it will not take any actions that may cause chaos in the international financial market?

A: China is a responsible member of the international community, which can be seen not only in political arena but also in economic and financial fields. As to the specific matters, China is also going to play a responsible and active role in maintaining the stability of the global financial market.

Q: President of Indonesia is attending the China-ASEAN summit. Did China and Indonesia sign any energy agreement during the summit? Could you brief us on the agenda of the Indonesia President in China? Second, a US human rights group to protect the rights of the DPRK people released a report, criticizing the DPRK for its human rights problems, urging the Security Council to take actions. What position does China hold?

A: On your first question, Premier Wen Jiabao and President Susilo held meetings during the China-ASEAN Commemorative Summit in Nanning. Both believed that the establishment of strategic partnership between China and Indonesia signals a maturing relationship. To map out an action plan for the strategic partnership between China and the DPRK at an early date will be conducive to furthering mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries. Both sides need to make concerted efforts to expand two-way trade and the scope of investment as well as promote tourism cooperation. We hope to coordinate closely with Indonesia to implement the agreed infrastructure projects including the construction of Indonesian railways, bridges, dams and power stations. Since I was not present at the meeting, I did not see any reports. I will have to check for you for energy cooperation details.

On your second question, China always holds that state-to-state relations must be handled in accordance with the UN charter, international law and international relations.

Q: On China's oil export to the DPRK. Since the DPRK made a nuclear test already, will China suspend or reduce its oil supply to and other trade with the DPRK?

A: China and the DPRK have normal trade and economic cooperation, which aims at promoting the national economy and people's livelihood of the DPRK as well as help its people to overcome the difficulties in energy and food. I haven't heard any change to the policy.

Q: What's China's plan for China-EU talks over a new framework agreement? Besides, during the Beijing Summit of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, traffic control measures will be taken in Beijing, such as blocking out airport expressways, and restricting cars of government authorities on road. Why does China carry out these measures?

A: On your first question. This September, when Premier Wen Jiabao attended the 9th China-EU Summit, he reached consensus with his European counterparts on launching the talks over China-EU framework agreement. China and EU will negotiate on the framework agreement of future cooperation in all fields in order to analyze, view, and plan China-EU cooperation from a strategic and long-term perspective. We are looking forward to conducting constructive and effective cooperation with the EU so as to sign the framework agreement at an early date.

On your second question, the Beijing Summit of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum is the largest international convention ever convened in China since the establishment of the PRC in 1949. Like I said, high-level delegations from 48 countries will attend this Summit. Besides, over 20 international organizations will be present at the Summit as observers. To ensure security and smooth proceeding of the Summit, we will take necessary traffic control measures in Beijing to guarantee all the delegates come to the Summit timely and smoothly. These measures will inevitably affect the traffic in Beijing. However, current feedback from citizens in Beijing showed their support for the Summit, their understanding of those measures, and greetings to our African friends. The Summit will only last a couple of days, so will the impact. We will try our best to minimize the impact on traffic.

Q: Will you share with us the details of the second strategic dialogue between China and Pakistan on October 27?

A: China and Pakistan just held the second strategic dialogue. Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Cui Tiankai exchanged views with Pakistani Foreign Secretary Riaz on China-Pakistan cooperation. Riaz's visit to China was also to prepare for the high-level exchange between the two countries. The dialogue has yielded important results with consensus reached over lots of issues.

Q: It is said China has invited African countries having diplomatic ties with Taiwan to the Beijing Summit. Which countries will take part in the Summit? Is this summit helpful to encourage these countries to establish official diplomatic relations with Chinese mainland?

A: Until now, I have not been informed that any country having no diplomatic ties with China will be present at the Summit. We will respect the final decision of these countries.

Q: It is reported that Iran has resumed its uranium enrichment activities. What's China's position on the draft resolution over the issue of Iran by the UN Security Council?

A: We've noted relevant reports. Recently, there have been some developments in the Iranian nuclear issue. We hold that under current circumstances, parties concerned shall avoid to take any action that might escalate the situation. China will continue to consult with parties involved at the UN Security Council on this issue.

Q: Is Lula's reelection as Brazilian president conducive to the development of China-Brazil relations?

A: China congratulates President Lula on his reelection and the smooth election of Brazil. President Hu Jintao and Vice President Zeng Qinghong have sent telegrams of congratulations to President Lula and Vice President Alencar respectively.

Over the past years, headways have been made in the strategic partnership relations between China and Brazil thanks to our joint efforts. We believe that China-Brazil relations will be further promoted under the new Brazilian administration, and we are willing to join hands with Brazil to make concrete efforts.

Q: Will you confirm how many heads of states from Africa will attend the Beijing Summit of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum? Will Sudanese President Bashir and Zimbabwean President Mugabe take part in the Summit? Does China feel embarrassed to invite these two leaders to the Beijing Summit given that their policies are condemned by the international community?

A: As to your first question, 48 African countries have confirmed to send high-level delegations to the Beijing Summit, some of which have already arrived in Beijing. As far as I know, Sudanese President Bashir and Zimbabwean President Mugabe will be present at the Summit.

We should view the Beijing Summit from a long-term and broader perspective of China-Africa relations. This Summit marks a milestone in the history of China-Africa relations, which will extensively and vigorously promote the China-Africa cooperation. Strengthening the exchange and cooperation in fields of politics, trade and economy, culture, education, public health, and enhancing coordination and cooperation in international affairs is conducive to China, to Africa, and to peace, development, and prosperity of the world as well. There is nothing to be embarrassed of.

Q: Guinea-Bissau President and Angolan Prime Minister started their visit to China two days ago. Will you tell us more about the visit? When will Premier Wen Jiabao meet Angolan Prime Minister? Will the two countries sign new energy agreements?

A: Leaders of these two countries have arrived in China to start their visit and participate in relevant meetings. Chinese leaders will meet with them. Premier Wen Jiabao will hold a meeting with Angolan Prime Minister. We are glad that they came and welcome them to the Beijing Summit. As to what will be discussed between the two sides, it is yet to be decided.

We conclude here. Thanks for your presence!