China says it has taken reciprocal measures on U.S. embassies and consulates
Updated 21:47, 11-Sep-2020
CGTN

China has taken reciprocal measures on staff at the U.S. embassy and its consulates in China, including the consulate in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, in response to U.S. restrictions on the Chinese embassy and consulates, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday. 

China has issued a diplomatic note announcing reciprocal restrictions on the activities of the U.S. embassy and consulates in China and their personnel, said Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson from the ministry, on the ministry's website. 

The relevant measures apply to senior diplomats and all other personnel of the embassy and consulates, with the aim of urging the U.S. to repeal its wrong decisions as soon as possible, Zhao further explained, without specifying the measures. 

Since October last year, the U.S. Department of State has imposed multiple rounds of restrictions on the normal performance of duties by the Chinese embassy and consulates and their personnel in the United States, said Zhao.

Last week, Washington announced fresh restrictions, saying it would require senior Chinese diplomats to get State Department approval before visiting university campuses or holding cultural events with more than 50 people outside mission grounds.

U.S. restrictions have violated international law and the basic norms of international relations, Zhao said, adding that they have seriously interfered in Sino-U.S. relations and normal bilateral exchanges. 

"Once again we urge the U.S. side to immediately correct its mistakes and lift the unreasonable restrictions imposed on the Chinese embassy and consulates and their staff. China will make reciprocal responses to U.S. actions," Zhao stressed. 

(Cover photo: The Chinese Foreign Ministry in Beijing.)