China expresses regret over fatal stabbing of student

China on Thursday expressed its regret and sadness over the death of a Japanese student in Shenzhen.

“China expresses its regret and sorrow that such a regrettable incident has occurred,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian.

“We mourn the boy’s death and extend our condolences to his family.”

Lin described the attack as an isolated incident.

The ten-year-old boy was on his way to the Japanese school in Shenzhen on Wednesday when he was attacked about 200 meters from the gate.

He later died in hospital.

A 44-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene.

The victim's father is a Japanese citizen, while his mother is a Chinese citizen.

“China will provide his parents with all necessary support afterwards,” Lin said.

An investigation has been launched and “China and Japan are in contact on this case,” he added.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida described the attack as “extremely despicable.”

“At this point, we urge China to make a statement about what is actually happening,” he said.

“Since the incident occurred over a day ago, we expect them to provide a statement as soon as possible.”

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa said she had ordered Japanese schools in China to review their security measures.

The Foreign Ministry has said China will continue to take effective measures to protect the safety of all foreigners in the country. (Agencies)