Q: The situation in the border areas between Lebanon and Israel has again become tense. What is China's comment?


A: The Chinese Government has always been concerned with the border situation between Lebanon and Israel, which has once again become tense. It deeply regrets the human casualties arising therefrom and hopes that relevant parties will soon take measures to calm the situation. It is the consistent position of China that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon should be respected and Israel should unconditionally implement Resolution 425 of the UN Security Council by withdrawing its troops from southern Lebanon. The Middle East peace talks are now at a critical stage. We hope that parties concerned will stop any move detrimental to Middle East peace talks so as to make early progress in the talks.