ACCRA - A Chinese joint working team is in Ghana to discuss issues linked to Chinese nationals in the crackdown on illegal gold mining in the West African country.

Upon its arrival on Tuesday, the team of the Chinese ministries of foreign affairs, commerce and public security met with Ghanaian officials of the security and immigration departments to discuss the issues.

Zhou Youbin, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Ghana, and Qiu Xuejun, the head of the Chinese delegation, told Ghanaian officials that the Chinese government understands and respects the move taken by the Ghanaian government against illegal gold mining according to law.

They expressed hope that both countries will take effective measures to resolve the issues concerned with Chinese nationals appropriately.

The Chinese officials called for a civilized way of law enforcement and a halt on the arrest of Chinese nationals.

They urged Ghanian authorities to protect Chinese nationals from attacks and looting, while providing security and conveniences for those who want to return to China.

Ghanian officials pledged to keep close contact and cooperation with China and deal with the issues properly. They said they have taken effective steps to stop looting and provide security for Chinese nationals.

Thousands of Chinese, inspired by stories of quick fortune, have flocked to Ghana in recent years as gold diggers, mostly from Shanglin county in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

The Ghanaian government launched a crackdown on illegal mining recently, arresting 169 Chinese workers. After consultations between officials of the two countries, the Chinese detainees have been released.