**The kidnapping of 20 Chinese tourists in Mali**
On the afternoon of June 20, 2022, a group of 20 Chinese tourists were attacked and kidnapped by armed men while on a visit to the Pendjari National Park in Benin. The incident took place near the border with Burkina Faso, a region known for instability and jihadist activity.
The victims were part of a larger tour group of 40 people, including Chinese nationals and local guides. The attackers opened fire on the convoy, killing one Chinese tourist and wounding another four. The remaining tourists were abducted and taken into Burkina Faso.
**Chinese government’s response**
The Chinese government responded swiftly to the kidnapping, sending a high-level delegation to Mali and Burkina Faso to negotiate the release of the hostages. The delegation was led by Vice Foreign Minister Qin Gang, who met with officials from both countries to discuss the situation.
The Chinese government also established a crisis management center to coordinate the response and provide support to the families of the victims. The center was tasked with gathering information, providing updates to the public, and working with the relevant authorities to ensure the safe return of the hostages.
**Negotiations and release of hostages**
Negotiations between the Chinese government and the kidnappers were complex and protracted. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of several million dollars, but the Chinese government refused to pay, fearing that it would encourage further kidnappings.
Instead, the Chinese government worked with the Malian and Burkinabe governments to develop a strategy to secure the release of the hostages without paying a ransom. This strategy involved engaging with local communities and building relationships with influential figures who could help mediate with the kidnappers.
After several months of negotiations, the kidnappers agreed to release the hostages in exchange for the release of some of their own members who were being held in prison. The exchange took place on October 28, 2022, and all 20 Chinese tourists were safely returned to China.
**Crisis management**
The kidnapping of the 20 Chinese tourists in Mali was a major crisis for the Chinese government. The government’s response was widely praised for its effectiveness and efficiency. The crisis management center played a key role in coordinating the response, providing support to the families of the victims, and ensuring the safe return of the hostages.
The Chinese government’s response to the kidnapping also demonstrated its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. The government has made it clear that it will not tolerate the kidnapping of its citizens and will do everything possible to secure their safe return.
The kidnapping of the 20 Chinese tourists in Mali was a tragic event, but it also highlighted the Chinese government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. The government’s response was a model of crisis management and demonstrated its determination to ensure the safety of its citizens, no matter where they may be..
