TEXT: STATE SPOKESMAN ON BOMBING OF CHINA EMBASSY IN BELGRADE
(U.S. committed to developing relationship with China)

Washington -- The United States regrets the loss of life caused by the bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, according to State Department spokesman Jamie Rubin.

But, Rubin added in his May 8 statement, the United States looked forward to being able to work with China on issues of mutual concern.

"The United States remains committed to our developing relationship with China," Rubin said, adding that the administration will continue efforts "to build a constructive strategic partnership."

Following is the official text of the State Department statement:

(begin text)

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman

May 8, 1999

STATEMENT BY JAMES P. RUBIN, SPOKESMAN

CHINA EMBASSY IN BELGRADE

The United States deeply regrets the loss of life and injuries of Chinese citizens and the damage to property caused by NATO's accidental bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade yesterday. We wish to express our sincere condolences and remorse to the Chinese people and Government.

Ambassador Sasser has also conveyed this message to the Chinese Foreign Ministry in Beijing.

In reaction to this tragic mistake, there have been large demonstrations at our Embassy in Beijing and our consulates in other Chinese cities that have involved rock throwing and damage to property but no injuries. We will cooperate fully with PRC efforts to maintain order and safety at our mission sites.

The United States remains committed to our developing relationship with China and will continue efforts toward achieving the goal set forth by the presidents of our two countries to build a constructive strategic partnership for the twenty-first century. We look forward to continuing to work with China on matters of mutual and global concern, including resolution of the situation in Kosovo.

(end text)

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