BEIJING, Dec. 20 -- China expresses condolences over Indian peacekeepers' death in South Sudan and strongly condemns the violent attack on the United Nations 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 sympathy to the families of the victims and the Indian government.

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

She 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.

The unrest broke out in the South Sudan capital of Juba last Sunday and intensified in Jonglei state on Thursday. The South Sudan government declared curfew in several areas, including Juba and Jonglei.

According to Hua, Chinese organizations 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 urges the South Sudan government to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals and organizations.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry warned its citizens against traveling 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.