China’s Consulate General in Marseille has officially complained to France after a Chinese tour group bus was targeted by rioters, resulting in minor injuries to passengers, according to a statement from China’s Consular Affairs Office. The complaint emphasizes the need for France to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and their belongings.
The incident occurred during the recent wave of violence in French cities following the police shooting of a teenager of North African descent. The statement further informs that the Chinese tourists have already departed from France.
In light of the ongoing riots, the Consular Office statement advises Chinese citizens in France or planning to visit the country to exercise caution, remain vigilant, and take necessary preventive measures. While rioting appeared to be less intense on Saturday, with increased police deployment after the teenager’s funeral, some tensions and sporadic clashes were still observed in central Paris, Nice, Strasbourg, and Marseille.