China's policy towards Zimbabwe will not change: FM

BEIJING -- China's policy towards Zimbabwe will not change and China expects to enhance cooperation with Zimbabwe under the principles of equality and mutual benefit, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said Wednesday.

Lu made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to a request for comment on the resignation of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.

Lu said that as a good friend of Zimbabwe's, China appreciates the peaceful and appropriate settlement of relevant issue through talks and negotiations within the framework of law.

Robert Mugabe, aged 93, resigned as Zimbabwe's president Tuesday, a week after the army and his former political allies moved to end his four-decade rule.

According to reports, Zimbabwe's former Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to be sworn in within days and serve the remainder of Mugabe's term until the general election, which is scheduled for next year.

"A stable and developing Zimbabwe is in line with fundamental interests of its own people," said Lu. "China attaches great importance to relations with Zimbabwe and is willing to make joint efforts with Zimbabwean side to facilitate cooperation in all fields."

"China respects Mr. Mugabe's decision to resign. He remains a good friend to the Chinese people," Lu said. "Mugabe had made historic contributions to Zimbabwe's independence and liberation, and he is an active advocator of the Pan-Africanism movement. He also made important contributions to China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa relations.

China is confident that Zimbabweans are capable of maintaining their country's political stability and development, said Lu.

"China has always adhered to the principle of not interfering in internal affairs of other countries. China respects Zimbabwean people's choice," Lu said, adding that China also hopes that other countries will not meddle in Zimbabwe's internal affairs either.