April 27, 2006 (BEIJING) — A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman on Thursday demanded evidence from critics who say that Beijing values oil more than human rights because it does business with oil-rich regimes at odds with the West.

Sudanese Energy Minister Awad al-Jaz with unidentified Chinese responsible wearing Sudanese national dress. (Petrodar).

"When has China violated human rights in conducting its normal economic, trade and oil cooperation with other countries?" asked Qin Gang at a regular news briefing. "I want the exact evidence."

In recent week, editorials in American newspapers accused China of overlooking human rights abuses by governments that supply it with oil, particularly the Sudanese government. Qin’s comments came in response to a reporter’s question for comment on the criticisms.

"Don’t spread these rumors anymore," Qin responded forcefully. "China is a responsible country. On the international stage, we maintain peace, cooperation and development."

China’s rapid growth has caused it to scour the globe for supplies of energy, food and other raw materials. The hunt has raised alarms among some international security specialists who have warned of a coming global race with the West for resources.

Africa has become a frontier of opportunity for the world’s most populous country and its fastest growing economy.

That has meant opportunity, aid and even key diplomatic support to some governments, like Sudan and Zimbabwe, whose policies the West dislikes. The Sudanese government provides 6 percent of China’s oil.

"We have consistently promoted peace and stability in Sudan and are playing a constructive role in this regard," Qin said. "We all know that China and Sudan have not only developed economic cooperation but helped local people to develop their economy and improve their lives."

China, Qin said, has sent peacekeeping forces to Sudan in support of U.N. policies.

"Some people when they make comments, why don’t they talk about this point?" Qin asked.

(ST)