China seeks US explanation over phone tapping

Expressing grave concern over reported phone tapping by the US in China, Beijing Thursday sought an explanation from the Washington.

"We have made representations to the US side, and we demand the US side to clarify and explain itself on this matter," reported Xinhua citing Chinese foreign ministry's spokeswoman Hua Chunying during a press briefing.

"We urge foreign missions in China and their employees to strictly abide by the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and other international conventions, and not to engage in any activities incompatible with their duties and status that may hurt China's national security and interests," she said.

Hua made the remarks in response to a question asking for her comment on a report that the US has about 80 intelligence collection sites worldwide, including in China, where the US embassy and consulates in the cities of Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu are engaged in phone tapping.

It was also alleged that some intelligence officers use their diplomatic status as a cover.

"A healthy and steady Sino-US relation is beneficial not only to the two countries, but also to the stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region and the whole world," she added.