South China Morning Post:
Data shows a 40% year-on-year drop in China's coal imports throughout January and February earlier this year, and it is said that China has imposed a ban on imports of Australian coal. Under such circumstances, will there be uncertainties about China's coal supply this year? Thank you.
Zhang Jianhua:
Mr. Li will answer this question.
Li Fulong:
This is a very important question. First, China has been part of the economic globalization system for many years, and its economy and energy sector have been increasingly integrated into the world trade system. China follows international practices and rules regarding the import and export of important products, including coal, oil, and natural gas. Second, in terms of market demand, energy supplies must meet the needs of China's economic development and people's livelihoods. We have always adhered to open, mutually beneficial, and win-win principles of international cooperation, including the field of international coal trade you just mentioned. These guidelines and benchmarks have always been upheld and unchanging for a long time. Third, market fluctuations and changes in demand are normal phenomena. As countries around the world gradually resume production, it is normal to see changes in energy supply and demand following the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic—not only in China but also around the world. That's my brief answer.
Zhang Jianhua:
Thank you, Mr. Li, and thank you for your attention, friend from the South China Morning Post. The NEA has a very important task, which is to ensure the security of the country's energy supply. Therefore, no matter the circumstances, with the support of local governments at all levels and close cooperation with enterprises, we can effectively guarantee the safety of energy supplies. This year, there are no obvious shortfalls and we have great confidence that national energy demands in all aspects will be satisfied.
Xing Huina:
Thank you, all the speakers and friends from the media. Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Goodbye!
Translated and edited by Yuan Fang, Zhou Jing, Duan Yaying, Liu Qiang, Gong Yingchun, Chen Xia, Wang Yiming, Li Huiru, Zhang Rui, Zhang Liying, Zhang Tingting, Huang Shan, He Shan, Liu Jianing, Wang Qian, Wang Wei, Qin Qi, Yang Xi, Xu Xiaoxuan, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Tom Arnstein. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.
