On September 25, 2008, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao held a regular press conference and answered questions on China’s cooperation with Venezuela, the DPRK nuclear issue, the Sanlu incident and etc.

Liu Jianchao: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. It’s been quite a while since we last met, nice to see you again. Now I’m ready to take your questions.

Q: Did China sign any military deal with Venezuela during President Chavez’s visit? Would you take into consideration the US position and attitude? And why?

A: To my knowledge, during President Chavez’s state visit to China, the two countries exchanged views on bilateral relations and cooperation in a broad range of fields, including politics, economy, trade, culture, as well as regional and international affairs. However, I did not hear any exchange of views on cooperation in military technology or trade.

There are two points that China considers in dealing with other countries. One, abiding by the fundamental norms governing international relations; and two, developing normal state-to-state relations. China and Venezuela have nothing more than normal state-to-state relations and normal cooperation between states. We will continue to promote a comprehensive and steady development of this relationship based on norms governing international relations.

Q: IAEA officials said that the DPRK has removed seals on Nyongbyon nuclear facilities and barred IAEA inspectors. Could you comment? Do you condemn this? Secondly, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize could possibly go to human rights activist Hu Jia. Do you have any comment? Thirdly, has the Chinese Government taken over Sanlu Company?

A: About your first question, thanks to efforts of all parties, the Six-Party Talks made major progress over the past few months. At present, the Talks are facing opportunities to move further ahead, while undeniably, there are difficulties to overcome. We hope relevant parties could display flexibility to solve the verification issue, implement the remaining tasks of the second phase in a comprehensive and balanced manner and jointly bring the Six-Party Talks to a new stage.

About your second question, I cannot confirm your information. But we believe, for the Nobel Peace Prize to live up to its reputation of honoring those who have truly contributed to world peace, it should be awarded to the right person. We hope relevant party will make the right decision, and do not challenge the original purpose of the Nobel Peace Prize or hurt Chinese people’s feelings.

About your third question, the Chinese Government and competent authorities are dealing with the Sanlu incident rigorously, and are taking care of the aftermath. As for specific measures taken, please refer to the quality inspection and health authorities.

Q: Is there any new progress with the investigation over the poisoned dumpling case? What exactly did China tell Japan about the case in August?

A: The investigation over the poisoned dumpling issue has been underway for quite a while, right now I have no more information to share. We hope the two sides could strengthen cooperation to find out the truth.

Q: How would you comment on the Russia-Venezuela joint military exercise?

A: I prefer not to comment on this cooperation between Russia and Venezuela.

Q: Given the latest development of the DPRK nuclear issue, do you think relevant energy assistance should be postponed?