A slogan is pictured at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in a protest against the upcoming Group of Seven (G7) summit, in Hiroshima, Japan, May 17, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
China has slammed a communique issued by the Group of Seven foreign ministers, urging the bloc to stop interfering in other countries' internal affairs.
In the communique issued following a meeting in Italy last week, the G7 ministers said they were "seriously concerned" about the situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea.
They also expressed "concerns" over issues related to Xinjiang, Xizang and Hong Kong, and mentioned the Taiwan question.
China is "strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to" the meeting manipulating China-related issues and disregarding facts, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Monday.
"The general situation in the South China Sea is peaceful and stable as a result of the joint efforts by China and ASEAN countries," Wang said. "There is no problem regarding the freedom of navigation in the region."
Regarding the Taiwan question, he said the most effective way to ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is to uphold the one-China principle and oppose "Taiwan independence".
In addition, Hong Kong, which has restored order, is working toward thriving at a faster pace, he said, adding that Xinjiang and Xizang are enjoying harmony, prosperity and stability, and members of all ethnic groups live peacefully and happily there.
Shared development
"While focusing on its own development, China is committed to promoting shared development of all countries," he said.
Quoting World Bank figures, Wang said China's contribution to global economic growth is higher than that of the G7 countries combined.
China calls for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, firmly upholds the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, and follows open and win-win cooperation, he said.
"In contrast, the G7 has held fast to the Cold War mentality, cobbled together small exclusive groupings and escalated regional tensions and conflicts," he said.
Wang urged the G7 to change the habit of deflecting blame and work with the rest of the world to uphold peace, enhance cooperation and advance development.
