GUO NEI

The Office of Overseas Chinese Affairs has confirmed it will form stronger bonds with compatriots abroad and returned Chinese.

Guo Dongpo, director of the Office of Overseas Chinese Affairs of the State Council, said nationals living abroad passionately supported the country's development.

Speaking at yesterday's national overseas Chinese affairs meeting, Guo recognized the contribution overseas Chinese made to the reunification of the country.

"The mass of overseas Chinese people has effectively shored up China's peaceful reunification cause," he said.

Guo vowed to develop roles in the Office of Overseas Chinese Affairs in China's construction, and enhance its friendship with people from other countries.

He called for more overseas Chinese language education, saying that would promote valuable cultural exchanges.

There are more than 34 million overseas Chinese living in more 170 countries, according to official sources.

Guo said the office would see to the implementation of the law on protecting the rights and interests of returning overseas Chinese and their family members.

More than 150 directors and representatives of local overseas Chinese affairs offices attended yesterday's meeting.