The Chinese government will continue to maintain zero tolerance stances on illegal trades of ivory, said Foreign Ministry spokesperson yesterday.
“The Chinese government attaches great importance to the protection of wild animals including elephants, and maintains zero tolerance stance on illegal trades of ivory. China has been strictly cracking down on the illegal smuggling and trades of ivory at every aspect including legislation, judicature and law enforcement. In addition, China has carried out extensive educational activities,” said Hong Lei, the spokesperson, at a regular news conference held in Beijing in response to a question related to elephant protection.
Hong pointed out that the Chinese government has already taken various measures for animal protection.
“As a country that has signed the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, China has abides by relevant treaty and conducted extensive global cooperation for a long time. We have also actively cooperated with countries where African elephants live, strengthened personnel training and provided financial support for elephant protection,” he said.
The spokesperson also called for further international cooperation for wild animal protection.
“Curbing the elephant poaching and illegal ivory trade involves many steps and needs efforts of every aspect. China urges the international community to make joint efforts to crack down on all the illegal activities so as to protect elephant. China will continue to strengthen the cooperation with the international community,” said Hong.
(Reuters)
