Chinese gold diggers in Ghana released

All Chinese nationals arrested in a crackdown on illegal gold mining in Ghana have been released, a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told a Thursday press briefing.

Hua Chunying said the Chinese government places a high value on issues relating to its nationals digging gold in Ghana.

The Ghanaian government recently launched a crackdown on illegal mining, arresting 169 Chinese workers.

A joint working team, consisting of members of the Chinese ministries of foreign affairs, commerce and public security, has been in Ghana meeting with Ghanaian officials of the security, immigration and interior departments to discuss issues, Hua said.

The Chinese officials called for civilized law enforcement and a halt on the arrests of its nationals, she said.

They urged Ghanaian authorities to protect Chinese nationals from attacks and looting, while providing security and a convenient environment for those who want to return to China.

"We will strive to safeguard security and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese gold diggers in Ghana, and press ahead with the proper resolution of related problems," said the spokeswoman.