Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang confirmed Saturday night that the seven Chinese kidnapped in Pakistani capital of Islamabad were released around 8 PM Saturday (Beijing Time).

"They have arrived at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, with the efforts from Chinese Foreign Ministry and the embassy, and the great support from the Pakistani government," Qin said.

Chinese government has paid great attention to the abduction, said Qin. "Both the Foreign Ministry and the embassy have lodged urgent representation with the Pakistani side, requesting the early release of the Chinese hostages and ensure the safety of all Chinese in Pakistan."

It was reported that a Chinese couple, five of their women employees, and two Pakistani men were taken away from their residence in Islamabad early Saturday morning by Lal Masjid students.

(Xinhua News Agency June 24, 2007)