China strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province and reiterates its opposition to all forms of terrorism, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing in Beijing on Monday.
"China has noted the relevant reports and strongly condemns this terrorist attack. We express deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathies to the injured and their families. China firmly opposes all forms of terrorism and will continue to resolutely support Pakistan in combating terrorism, safeguarding social unity and stability, and protecting the safety of its people. China is also willing to further strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation with Pakistan to jointly safeguard peace, security, and stability in the region," Mao said.
The death toll from a suicide blast targeting a passenger train in Balochistan province has risen to 47, including 20 soldiers, with 98 others injured, according to rescue officials on Monday.
China strongly condemns deadly terrorist attack in Pakistan's Balochistan
Chinese President Xi Jinping awarded Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic the Friendship Medal of the People's Republic of China in Beijing on Monday.
As solemn music played and the golden doors slowly opened, Xi and Vucic entered the hall together, followed by Xi's wife Peng Liyuan and Vucic's wife Tamara Vucic.
Applauding guests rose to their feet, and paid respect to the two heads of state.
A Guard of Honor escorted the Friendship Medal into the hall, and amid solemn music, Xi formally presented the medal to Vucic.
Xi highlighted Vucic's long-standing commitment to advancing China-Serbia friendship and underscored the significance of the honor.
"President Vucic has long stayed committed to China-Serbia friendship, and he has always given China the firmest and clearest support on issues concerning China's core interests and major concerns. He gains the respect from the Chinese people. This medal is not only a high recognition of President Vucic's contributions to bilateral friendship, but also carries the earnest expectations of both peoples for building a China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era," Xi said.
The Friendship Medal is China's highest state honor for foreigners, reserved for those who have made outstanding contributions to China's modernization drive, promoting exchange and cooperation between China and the world, and safeguarding world peace.
At the invitation of Xi, Vucic is on a state visit to China from Sunday to Thursday, with this marking his first state visit to China and his ninth trip to the country overall.
Xi awards Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic China's friendship medal
