Wells Fargo banker Mao Chenyue, who has been blocked from leaving China in recent weeks, is involved in a criminal case and obliged to cooperate with the investigation, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a press briefing in Beijing on Monday.
Responding to media reports that Mao has been recently prevented from exiting China, Guo said that Chinese law enforcement authorities have imposed an exit ban on her in accordance with legal procedures.
"According to what we’ve learned, Ms. Mao Chenyue is involved in a criminal case currently being handled by Chinese law-enforcement authorities and is subjected to exit restrictions in accordance with the law. Pursuant to Chinese laws, with the case still under investigation, Ms. Mao cannot leave the country for the time being and has an obligation to cooperate with the investigation," said Guo.
"Anyone, Chinese and foreigners alike, should abide by Chinese laws in China. We will protect Ms. Mao’s lawful rights and interests during the investigation in accordance with the law. Let me stress that it is an individual judicial case. China will as always welcome people from all countries to travel and do business in China and ensure their rights and interests in accordance with the law," said the spokesman.
Wells Fargo banker involved in criminal case, obliged to cooperate with investigation: Chinese FM spokesman
