Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses ``deep condolences'' over manga artist Akira Toriyama's passing - Chinese report

At a regular press conference held on the 8th, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Mao Ning expressed his condolences over the passing of manga artist Akira Toriyama.
On the same day, a reporter said, ``Japanese manga artist Akira Toriyama has passed away.His manga ``Dragon Ball (Chinese title: Longzhu)'' is based on the Chinese masterpiece ``Journey to the West.''
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been asked to comment. Spokesperson Mao said, ``I would like to express my deep condolences on the passing of Akira Toriyama and my sincere condolences to his family.''
Regarding Toriyama, he said, ``He was a famous manga artist, and his works were very popular in China,'' adding, ``Many Chinese internet users also mourned Toriyama's passing.''
It represents the meaning of the word,” he said. He added, ``I hope that more Japanese experts will actively engage in cultural exchange and friendship projects between the two countries.''