Blizzard released the following press announcement yesterday to show its commitement to continue supporting WoW in China.

Entertainment Inc. today reiterated its commitment to its future business in mainland China by announcing that it is currently actively exploring and discussing cooperation opportunities and further expansion of its business with local potential partners for mainland China.

The company also announced that it has invited China The9 Interactive, Blizzard's local current partner for World of Warcraft in mainland China, to negotiate the upcoming World of Warcraft expansion set, World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade, and to discuss its release in mainland China currently planned for next year.

Further details regarding the launch of World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade in mainland China, as well as partnerships in connection with future Blizzard Entertainment titles in mainland China, will be revealed at a later date.