On October 13, 2011, Vice Foreign Minister Song Tao summoned the charge d'affaires ad interim of Thai embassy in China Warawudh Chuwiruch, Laos Ambassador to China Somdy Bounkhoum and Myanmar Ambassador to China U Tin Oo and lodged to them urgent representations on the attack of Chinese cargo ships with Chinese crew onboard and the killing of Chinese crew members.

Song said that two Chinese cargo ships carrying 13 Chinese crew members were hijacked and attacked on Mekong River on October 5. So far, 12 Chinese crew members have been confirmed dead and 1 remained missing. Deeply shocked by the incident, the Chinese government feels deep grief for the Chinese victims and strongly condemns the atrocities of the criminals. The Chinese government cherishes the life of every Chinese citizen and will thoroughly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Song Tao said that China demands the three countries to give active assistance in the following areas:

First, step up efforts of investigation, find out the truth as soon as possible and promptly inform the Chinese side, arrest and punish the perpetrators according to law.

Second, provide assistance and protection for the Chinese crew members and ships staying in Chiang Saen to return to China, ensure the safety of the crew and ships and facilitate and help Chinese public security patrol boats to pick them up.

Third, take effective measures to strengthen protection of Chinese crew members and ships plying on Mekong River and prevent similar crimes from happening again. China will discuss with other related parties ways of reinforcing safety of the Mekong waterway and expects active support and coordination to jointly safeguard the security of this important international waterway.

The diplomats of the three countries expressed deep condolences over the killing of Chinese crew members. They said that they attach great importance to the representation of the Chinese side and will immediately report to their governments. They are willing to fully cooperate with China to actively carry out investigations and provide full assistance to properly handle the aftermath.