China Denounces Asian Development Bank Move

China is "strongly dissatisfied" with the Asia Development Bank in regard to a document that meddles in the China-India border dispute.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks in reaction to the ADB's recent approval of the India Country Partnership Strategy, which involves the territorial dispute between China and India.

"China expresses its strong dissatisfaction over the move of the Asian Development Bank. This move can't change the fact that China and India have huge border disputes. It can not change China's fundamental stance on the issue either. The ADB, as a regional development institution, should not interfere in the political affairs of its members. This move not only seriously tarnishes ADB's reputation but also damages the interests of its members. The Chinese government strongly urges the ADB to take effective measures to eliminate the negative impact of this move."

Meanwhile, the spokesman reacted to some reports accusing China of protectionism with regard to a recent notice of government procurement.

"China has always sticked to the strategy of opening up with mutual benefits. We oppose any kind of trade or investment protectionism. The procurement notice is just to maintain a market of fair competition. It conforms to China's domestic procurement law and internationally accepted practices."

Earlier this month, China's top economic planning body issued a notice requiring government bodies to procure domestically made products for public projects funded by the stimulus package.