In its first direct comment on reports that emerged over a week ago of US surveillance of the internet, China called on US authorities to provide the 'necessary explanation', reports Reuters.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Hua Chunying, said on Monday:
"We believe the United States should pay attention to the international community's concerns and demands and give the international community the necessary explanation."
Asked for her comments on claims that the whistleblower Edward Snowden is a spy for China, Chunying simply said: "this is sheer nonsense".