Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks in response to a reporter's question on China's development of the Tianwaitian gas field in the East China Sea.

Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan ships can request escort of Chinese mainland navy

    BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Ships from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan can request the escort services of the Chinese mainland's navy fleet in Somalian waters, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang at a regular press conference here Tuesday.

    Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan are all part of China. The Chinese government attached high importance to the safety of overseas Chinese, and the escort flotilla in Somalian waters will also protect ships from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, Qin said.

China expects U.S. deputy secretary of state Negroponte's visit

    BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- China on Tuesday said it expected the visit of U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John D. Negroponte.

"We understand the U.S. decision on cancellation of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's scheduled tour to China, and expect Negroponte's visit," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang at a regular press conference in response to a question.

China calls for cease-fire in Gaza

    BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- China on Tuesday called for a cease-fire in Gaza and pledged to work with the international community to get the Palestine-Israel issue back on track to political settlement.

    "China urges the relevant sides to stop military action and armed conflict to prevent the civilians casualties and create condition for peaceful talks and political settlement," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang.