Defense spokesman: Ebola criticism reflects distorted mindset

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng said Thursday that overseas criticism over the Chinese military's role in fighting Ebola reflects the distorted mindset that a group of people hold toward China.

He made the remark when asked at a regular press conference to comment on reports that China sending troops to fight Ebola was a mere show of military strength and an attempt to reinforce influence in Africa.

Geng said that a certain group of people were saying China failed to perform its responsibility and allocate adequate resources, and on the other hand they proclaimed Chinese military participation in the aid as protection of the country's own interests.

"Such comments are ridiculous and totally unfounded," Geng said. "They reflect the distorted mindset of certain people."

He said the Chinese military would continue to provide support and assistance within its capabilities for West African countries.

The Chinese military completed the construction of an Ebola treatment center in Liberia and put it into operation on Tuesday.

China has dispatched hundreds of military medical personnel to the affected countries of Sierra Leone and Liberia. A second batch of Chinese medical staff have arrived in Sierra Leone and are expanding existing facilities into another treatment center.