China in its most direct response said on Tuesday that "certain people" should stop the "malicious hyping and politicisation" of the issue of tennis star Peng Shuai, whose wellbeing has been taken up by foreign governments and organisations. "I think some people should stop deliberately and maliciously hyping up, let alone politicise this issue," said foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian in response to a question on whether the case affected China's international image. Until now, China repeatedly brushed off questions about Peng Shuai’s whereabouts and welfare, saying they “were not a diplomatic issue". Also read | IOC call with Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai raises more questions"I think some people should stop deliberately and maliciously hyping up, let alone politicise this issue," foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijians said during a regular press briefing. Zhao was asked whether the case affected China's international image.

Source: Hindustan Times November 23, 2021 17:43 UTC