China refutes allegations of 'money diplomacy' to enforce One China policy

China refuted allegations byTaiwan on Thursday that it is luring small countries with "money diplomacy" to enforce its 'One China' policy after Sao Tome and Principe, a central African nation, cut off its diplomatic ties with Taipei and moved closer to Beijing.

"How can the one-China principle be traded with money? The Chinese government never trades its principles," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a media briefing here reacting to Taiwan's assertion that Sao Tome opted for "highest bidder" namely China to tide over its economic difficulties.

Hua said the 'One China' principle had broad consensus in the international community, while representing people's aspirations. "We appreciate and welcome Sao Tome and Principe returning to the correct track of sticking to the 'One China' policy.Justice lies in people's hearts," she said.