BEIJING - China will strengthen protection of its citizens and organizations overseas, Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday, after the murder of a Chinese hostage by Islamic State (IS) in Syria.

Earlier in the day, the Foreign Ministry confirmed the death of a man named as Fan Jinghui.

"The Chinese government strongly condemns the atrocity," Li said, expressing his deep sympathy to the victim's family.

He urged government departments to help Fan's family after his murder.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to the safety of its citizens overseas, the premier said, vowing continued efforts to safeguard their security.