I. the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's office and its operation

The Foreign Ministry holds regular press conferences every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at 2:45 p.m. in the Press Room of MFA. At these regular conferences, the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson is authorized to announce to the media news about visits abroad by Chinese state leaders' visits to China by high-level foreign officials, the Chinese government's positions and opinions on major foreign policy issues and answer questions raised by correspondents concerning China's foreign policy. Beijing-based foreign correspondents must present their press cards to be admitted to the press conferences.

Between press conferences, resident foreign correspondents may contact the Spokesperson's office at 6596-3342 with questions concerning China's foreign policy. They may also make appointments to speak with the Spokesperson on Wednesday afternoons at the IPC (6588-2585, 6588-2586). After working hours, correspondents can call 13910869861 for information.

The IPC occasionally hosts background briefings. Resident foreign correspondents and press officers from diplomatic missions are welcome to attend these activities. Please refer to http:// ipc.fmprc.gov.cn, for IPC's upcoming events.

II. Spokespersons' Offices in Other Government Departments

a. Foreign correspondents who have questions on domestic matters should call the State Council Information Office's hotline at 6559- 2311.

b. State Council ministries and commissions and their subsidiaries all have spokespersons that are responsible for releasing news about their respective departments. When necessary, foreign correspondents may direct their questions to these spokespersons. (For more information, see part IV.)