On August 25, 2011, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi met with President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Jakob Kellenberger who is in China attending the 43rd Florence Nightingale Medal Award Conference of the Chinese Red Cross.

Yang spoke highly of the important role of the ICRC of providing humanitarian aid for the victims of armed conflicts and easing the humanitarian situation in relevant countries and regions. He noted that the international situation remains complex and fluctuating and the humanitarian situation serious. The international community should tackle the root causes of problems, strengthen solidarity and take joint actions. China always participates actively in the international humanitarian activities and provides related countries with assistance within its own capability. The Chinese government is willing to maintain dialogue and communications with the ICRC and continue to deepen the bilateral cooperation.

Kellenberger thanked the Chinese government for its long-term support for the ICRC and said that he would like to strengthen dialogue with China to promote the international humanitarian undertaking. He reiterated that the ICRC will continue to follow the principles of impartiality, neutrality and independence.