China has learned and is verifying the reports on the "suspected spy balloon over the U.S.," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing on Friday.

Stressing that China has no intention of violating the territory and airspace of any sovereign state, Mao mentioned China hopes to handle the matter calmly and prudently with the U.S.

"Speculation and hype are not conducive until the facts are clear," added Mao.