China cuts Libyan oil contracts

China’s largest state-run oil company has ended contracts in Libya over the civil war there, but an official spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it still “respects the Libyan’s people’s decision,” as rebels have taken control of the Libyan capital.

"We have noticed recent changes in the Libyan situation and we respect the Libyan people's choice," spokesman Ma Zhaoxu said in response to a question at a news briefing.

China has already evacuated thousands of its oil workers from the country, and watched the situation closely. But it has refrained from overt support of those ousting the current regime and seemingly kept somewhat friendly ties with both sides.