Beijing: China on Monday announced that it will impose reciprocal visa restrictions on US personnel that demonstrate "egregious behavior" related to the country's Tibet Autonomous Region. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Tibet-referred to as "Xizang" in Chinese-is strictly an internal matter for Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US recently imposed visa restrictions on Chinese officials over Tibet, prompting Beijing's response. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had claimed that China had blocked access to American diplomats, journalists, and others wishing to enter Tibet.

Lin Jian emphasized that the US' arbitrary visa restrictions on Chinese officials under the pretext of Xizang-related issues violate international law and basic norms. This statement was made at a news conference, highlighting China's firm stance on the matter.

The Chinese government has expressed its openness to welcoming friendly foreign nationals to visit, travel, and engage in business activities in the region. However, it stands against any country or individual that uses "so-called human rights, religion, or culture as an excuse to interfere in Xizang affairs," Lin Jian added. China opposes any party that uses visits to Tibet as a pretext for "disruption and sabotage."