China never interferes in the internal affairs of other countries in any way, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.
Guo was responding to the baseless accusations made recently by New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters on China's relations with Pacific island countries.
"China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. We have never shown any interest in, nor will we interfere in the internal affairs of any other country in any way. Regarding the remarks made by certain New Zealand official, they are completely unfounded. China has consistently upheld the principle of 'four fully respects' in developing its relations with Pacific island countries, and has no interest in, nor has it ever interfered in the internal affairs of any other country," said Guo.
The "four fully respects" refers to the principle where China fully respects the sovereignty and independence of Pacific island countries, and upholds the equality of all countries, big or small; fully respects the will of Pacific island countries and follows the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, shared benefits, and win-win results; fully respects the cultural traditions of Pacific island nations, and pursues harmony without uniformity and the common development of diverse cultures; and fully respects Pacific island countries' efforts to seek strength through unity and supports them in implementing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, so as to contribute to the building of a peaceful, harmonious, secure, inclusive, and prosperous Blue Pacific.
China never interferes in other countries' internal affairs: spokesman
