CPC National Congress holds third press conference
CGTN
["china"]
Leading officials from the United Front Work Department and the International Department of the CPC Central Committee have briefed the press on the united front work and the international exchanges on Saturday as the 19th CPC National Congress enters its fourth day. 
On United Front Work
Zhang Yijiong, executive vice minister of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, stressed the importance of the CPC led multi-Party cooperation and political consultation system, which has greatly contributed to China’s stability and solidarity, as well as its economic and social development.
As to the role multi-party cooperation plays in China, Ran Wanxiang, vice minister of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, said the system is "a choice of history" and it is in the interest of the people.
During the briefing, Zhang also noted the endeavors and accomplishment made on national unity and prosperity as during the past five years, the economy has grown and people's livelihoods have improved in China's ethnic minority areas.
"We will protect and respect the culture, traditions and relics of ethnic minorities," said Zhang. "We will also focus on getting the religious community and masses to fully play their active roles."
On CPC’s international exchanges
China will continuously work on promoting the CPC's external interactions and exchanges with foreign parties with the aim of enhancing mutual understanding and expounding China's position to the world, said Guo Yezhou, Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee at Saturday's press conference.
 Guo Yezhou, Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, briefs the media on Saturday. / CGTN Photo 

 Guo Yezhou, Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, briefs the media on Saturday. / CGTN Photo 

"Till now, the CPC keeps continuous contacts with over 400 political parties and organizations in 160 countries and regions," said Guo.
On relations with DPRK and comments on the 14th Dalai Lama's European tour
When asked if China's relations with the DPRK have been worsening in recent years, Guo said that the CPC and DPRK's Workers' Party have "traditionally friendly" exchanges, but in terms of where, how and when to carry out further exchanges "will depend on the needs" of both sides.
Also in response to the 14th Dalai Lama's European tour, Zhang from the United Front Work Department urged world nations and governments to speak and act with caution, and also take friendships with China into consideration, and respect China's sovereignty.
Zhang has called the 14th Dalai Lama a "political figure under the cloak of religion" who has been working on Tibet secession for decades.
"No legitimate government has recognized the 14th Dalai group, even if some governments and political figures accepted or met with the Dalai, they don’t recognize the group or his so-called government," Zhang added.
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