China expressed formal condolences on the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Friday.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a routine foreign ministry press briefing in Beijing after Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolences to King Charles III over the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a message of condolences to UK Prime Minister Liz Truss on the same day.
“China expresses its deep condolences on the death of Queen Elizabeth II,” Mao said. “The Queen reigned over her nation for seven decades and committed herself to national development and friendly exchanges with all countries in the world.”
The queen was the first British monarch to visit China and also welcomed Chinese leaders at Buckingham Palace, the ministry spokesperson noted.
Queen Elizabeth II “made important contributions to enhancing mutual understanding between the two peoples and expanding friendly exchanges between the two countries,” Mao said. “China stands ready to work with the UK royal family and all social sectors to further improve bilateral ties.”
(Compiled by Feng Chi)