China voices regret over racially discriminatory Spanish TV show

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Thursday expressed regret over a Spanish TV channel's racially discriminatory program for its use of offensive performance and language against the Chinese.

"We think the TV channel should face its wrongdoings, respond to the public sincerely, exert efforts to eliminate negative impact and avoid any repeat," said spokesperson Hua Chunying during a regular press briefing.

In the sketch aired by Spanish TV-5 on Dec. 31, 2013, a waiter in a Chinese restaurant dressed as a buffoon in traditional Chinese costume, used exaggerated performance, and was repeatedly attacked by local customers with abusive language.

The skit also smeared local Chinese restaurants by indicating that they serve cat and dog meat.

It's not the first anti-Chinese show from the commercial television network. In April 2013, it broadcast a report about local Chinese restaurants, made accusations about their sanitation without solid proof, and even asserted with no evidence that human bodies were used in dishes.

Many Chinese in Spain have expressed anger over the discriminatory programs and the Chinese embassy also issued statements about the TV shows last May and this January.

"Spain is a good friend and partner in the European Union. Chinese-Spanish cooperation is expanding and deepening, which is conducive for both sides," Hua said.

About 180,000 Chinese are currently living in Spain, have strived to integrate with the local community and have contributed to the economy and society, Hua noted.