Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian referred questions on Tuesday on China's reported ban on a foreign acquisition of Manus to competent Chinese authorities, saying the Chinese government reviews foreign investment in accordance with laws and regulations.

Asked to comment on reports that China had blocked foreign capital from acquiring Manus and opposed the continuation of the deal, Lin said that, "For the specific matter, I would refer you to the competent Chinese authorities."

As a matter of principle, he stressed that the Chinese government reviews foreign investment and makes relevant decisions in accordance with laws and regulations.