China rebukes US accusations over Snowden

China has rebuked accusations from the U.S. claiming that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has facilitated the flight of NSA whistle-blower Edward Snowden.

The Foreign Ministry says these claims are baseless and unacceptable. Spokeswoman said China hoped the US will work with China to promote healthy bilateral relations.

"The Hong Kong SAR government has strictly followed local law when dealing with the relevant case. The U.S. side has no reason to call into question the Hong Kong government's handling of affairs according to law, and the United States' criticism of China's central government is baseless, China absolutely cannot accept it," Foreign Minister Spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

"As for Sino-U.S. relations, a healthy relationship benefits both sides. China wishes the U.S. alongside China will promote steady and healthy relations. The two sides have been in close contact in terms of the Sino-U.S. strategic economic dialogue," she said.