China urges US to create fair investment environment

BEIJING -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman on Thursday urged the United States to create a fair and stable environment for Chinese companies investing and operating in the country.

Spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks when asked to comment on a Reuters report on Thursday, which said a White House-ordered review found no clear evidence that Chinese telecommunications company Huawei had spied for China.

"We have clearly stated our position on the issue of Huawei," Hong said at a news briefing in Beijing. "The news report once again proves that the accusations about Huawei are untrue."

Hong said China hopes countries concerned could properly treat overseas investment by Chinese private companies, as their investment is mutually beneficial.

A US congressional investigation report released on Oct 8 said Huawei and ZTE, two Chinese telecommunications companies, were potential security threats and recommended the US government not to use any equipment from the two firms in its computer systems.

Huawei and ZTE, both based in Shenzhen in southern China, denied the allegations and accused the United States of blocking Chinese companies from entering the overseas market.