- Kim Yong Nam, ex-chairman of DPRK’s Supreme People’s Assembly Standing Committee, died at age 97 from illness on November 3 local time.
- A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Balkh province in northern Afghanistan early on November 3 Beijing time, resulting in at least 24 deaths and over 640 injuries.
- UN Security Council renewed the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara; China abstained in the vote.
- US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over threats to Christianity, threatening to halt all aid and possibly initiate military actions if killings continue.
- China views a UK university’s halt to a professor’s human rights study as linked to anti-China efforts funded by certain Western entities.
- Venezuelan President Maduro seeks missiles and drones from China, Russia, and Iran amid US threats; China emphasizes normal state-to-state ties without third-party interference.
In the latest session of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s routine briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning addressed several pressing international developments, offering Beijing’s perspectives on diplomacy, disasters, and disputes. Held on November 4, 2025, the conference touched on condolences, humanitarian support, and firm stances against external meddling.
Condolences for DPRK Leader’s Passing
China has conveyed profound sorrow over the death of a longtime figure in North Korean politics. The individual, who once headed the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly, visited China multiple times with official groups and played a key role in fostering close relations between the two nations. Beijing extends deep sympathies to his relatives and honors his efforts in building enduring bonds.
Response to Afghanistan’s Devastating Quake
Authorities in China are closely monitoring the aftermath of a strong tremor that rocked northern Afghanistan. The event claimed numerous lives and left hundreds wounded, prompting heartfelt grief from Beijing for the victims and their loved ones. Officials express confidence in the Afghan administration’s ability to guide recovery efforts and stand ready to assist based on requests from Kabul.
Position on Western Sahara UN Resolution
During a recent UN Security Council meeting, the mandate for the peacekeeping operation in Western Sahara was extended, though China chose not to vote in favor. Beijing backs prolonging the mission’s role but notes disappointment that the text did not fully address all stakeholders’ views or fairly represent ongoing proposals. The emphasis remains on achieving a negotiated settlement through UN-led talks, grounded in prior council decisions, to ensure fairness for everyone involved.
Views on US Remarks Regarding Nigeria
As a major partner to Nigeria, China backs Lagos in pursuing growth aligned with its unique context. Beijing rejects attempts by any nation to invoke faith or rights issues as pretexts for meddling domestically, including warnings of penalties or armed intervention. Such actions only complicate internal matters.
Clarification on UK Academic Dispute
Claims that a British institution stopped a faculty member’s work on rights due to Beijing’s influence have surfaced, alongside reports of site access issues in China and diplomatic notes from London. Chinese officials describe the researcher as part of a network spreading false narratives against China, with her projects backed by specific foreign bodies, including intelligence outfits. Recent incidents appear staged to gain attention via appeals to scholarly independence.
Stance on Venezuela’s Security Concerns
Amid reports of Caracas pursuing defense tools like guided weapons and unmanned aircraft from various suppliers to counter potential US strikes, China reiterates its opposition to forceful anti-narcotics actions in the Caribbean. Beijing favors collaborative global efforts against transnational offenses and resists any threats of violence in dealings between countries. It opposes steps that could destabilize Latin America and the Caribbean, urging Washington to stick to standard legal channels for enforcement. Routine interactions between China and Venezuela proceed as sovereign exchanges, unaffected by outsiders.
This briefing underscores China’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and mutual respect in global affairs. As events unfold, these positions highlight Beijing’s approach to balancing support for allies with calls for restraint.