BEIJING, Jan. 20 (Xinhuanet) -- China’s ambassador to Mali says that most of the 1,500 to 1,800 Chinese people living in Mali are safe.

The ambassador called on Chinese people to cancel trips to the country unless they are essential. And he said Chinese businesses to move away from areas near the conflict.

Cao Zhongming, Chinese Ambassador to Mali, said, "Considering the tense situation in northern Mali, we have told Chinese companies in the Segou region which are quite close to the conflict, to withdraw their workers. The companies are now sending their staff to Bamako." 

(Source: CNTV.cn)