China urges EU to avoid restrictions on telecom manufacturers

BEIJING - A Foreign Ministry spokesman on Thursday urged the EU to refrain from imposing restrictions on Chinese telecommunications manufacturers amid reports claiming that the EU may do so.

"Any restrictions will definitely affect normal trade and investment and harm our cooperation in this area," spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular press conference.

Hong made the remarks while commenting on European media reports stating that an internal EU document advised the body to take measures against Chinese telecom companies ZTE and Huawei, saying the two companies are occupying the EU market, as well as threatening its security and the business of its companies.

"We have noticed the reports," Hong said, adding that wireless communications companies from both sides have significant business interests in each other's countries.

Hong said China hopes the EU will fully consider bilateral trade and economic cooperation, fulfill its commitment to oppose trade protectionism and avoid imposing restrictions in any form.