国内英语新闻:China condemns Mali hotel attack, pledges improved cooperation to fight terrorism

BEIJING, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- China strongly condemns the Friday attack at a hotel in Mali's capital Bamako that killed 27 people, including three Chinese nationals, and pledged to step up cooperation with the international community to fight terrorism.

"China will strengthen cooperation with the international community and resolutely crack down on terrorist activities that kill innocents and safeguard peace and stability of the world," according an instruction made by President Xi Jinping.

The president called for improved efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals and organizations overseas.

Premier Li Keqiang also extended his sympathies to the victims' families and demanded a professional, committed response to the aftermath with substantial measures to protect overseas Chinese nationals.

The attack, which took place place on the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, was claimed by Jihadist Al-Murabitoun group based in northern Mali.

About 170 people hostage were held for around nine hours by gunmen, before Mali forces rescued the hostages.

The Malian government declared a 10-day nationwide state of emergency and announced three days of mourning for the victims, who also included an American, a Belgian and two Russians.

The three Chinese victims were senior executives of China Railway Construction Corp. They were on a business trip, according to media report.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said in a statement that China expressed indignation and strongly condemned the atrocity.

China will continue to work with the international community to effectively safeguard the safety and legal rights of Chinese nationals and institutions abroad, he said.