BEIJING - China condemned the terrorist attack on a nightclub in Istanbul during New Year's celebrations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said on Sunday.

"China firmly opposes all forms of terrorism and is willing to work with the Turkey and the international community to maintain regional and world peace and security," Hua said.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has sent a message of condolence to his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu, according to Hua.

A gunman stormed into Reina nightclub early Sunday morning and shot at hundreds of people gathering there for New Year celebrations, leaving at least 39 killed and over 60 injured. Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin described the shooting spree as an act of terrorism.