Photo: CFP

 
In response to concerns expressed by India and Bangladesh regarding China's Yarlung Zangbo hydropower project, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated Wednesday that the construction of the hydropower project falls within China's sovereign territory and aims to accelerate the development of clean energy, significantly improve local livelihoods, and actively address climate change. 

China has always maintained a highly responsible attitude toward the development of cross-border rivers and has rich experience in hydropower project development, Guo said. 

Guo further stated that the planning, design, and construction of the Yarlung Zangbo hydropower project are strictly in accordance with the highest industry standards in China. The project is being carried out comprehensively with ecological and environmental protection in mind, avoiding multiple important ecological sensitive areas, and maximizing the preservation of the original ecosystem. The construction of the hydropower project is beneficial for disaster prevention and reduction across the entire river basin and will not have adverse effects on downstream areas, he said.

China has engaged in cooperation with relevant downstream countries on hydrological monitoring and flood prevention and reduction, and has conducted necessary communications regarding the hydropower project. China will continue to strengthen cooperation with downstream countries for the benefit of the people in the river basin, Guo said at the press conference.

Global Times