Probe of Meng Hongwei shows anti-corruption resolution

World
Europe

01:06

Chinese Vice Minister of Public Security Meng Hongwei is being investigated by the country's anti-graft body for suspected violations of the law, in a sign that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said reflects China's determination to fight corruption.

"Public Security Ministry Vice Minister Meng Hongwei is currently under investigation by the National Supervisory Commission for suspected violations of the law," the National Supervisory Commission said in a brief statement on its website.

The Ministry of Public Security on Monday held a meeting over the probe.

Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi said Meng is himself to blame for the investigation, adding that the ministry resolutely supports the investigation.

Meng, who also heads the global law enforcement organization Interpol, had been reported missing by his wife after traveling from France, where the organization is based, to China last month.

Interpol issued a statement announcing Meng's decision to quit the agency on Sunday.

"Today, Sunday 7 October, [at] the Interpol General Secretariat in Lyon, France received the resignation of Mr. Meng Hongwei as president of Interpol with immediate effect."

South Korean national Kim Jong-yang will fill Meng's position until a new president is appointed at a November 18-21 meeting in Dubai.

Spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry Lu Kang said on Monday the investigation indicates China's resolution to fight corruption and to rule the country by law.

The investigation will not affect China's relations with Interpol, the UN, and other international organizations, he noted.

Lu stressed that as a responsible country, China will continue its support for Interpol, and deepen cooperation with the organization's members in cracking down on crimes.

"China is one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council. We will remain an active player in international issues," Lu said.