Beijing, Dec 20 (IANS): China has expressed its condolences over the death of Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan and strongly condemned the violent attack on the UN mission in the country, a Chinese spokeswoman said Friday.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on the peacekeepers' death and give information on Chinese nationals in South Sudan, saying that China conveys its sympathies to the families of the victims and the Indian government, Xinhua reported.

At least three Indian peacekeepers were killed in an attack on a UN base in violence-hit South Sudan. Some 43 Indian peacekeepers were guarding the UN base in the country's Jonglei state.

Hua said Chinese peacekeepers in South Sudan are all safe at the moment and China urges all relevant parties to take effective measures to safeguard the safety of the UN peacekeepers.

There was unrest in South Sudan's capital Juba last Sunday and it intensified in Jonglei state Thursday. The South Sudan government declared curfew in several areas, including Juba and Jonglei.

According to Hua, Chinese organisations in South Sudan are preparing for evacuation.

She said the Chinese embassy in the country will continue offering necessary assistance for Chinese nationals' evacuation and urged the South Sudan government to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals and organisations.

The Chinese foreign ministry also warned its citizens against travelling to South Sudan and asked non-essential personnel to leave South Sudan as soon as possible.

It also advised staff in South Sudan to avoid outdoor activities and maintain emergency contact with the embassy.