Australian Anchor Linked To 'national Security' Case

China said Tuesday that it had detained a high-profile Australian journalist working for its state media on "national security grounds".

In the first comments on CGTN anchor Cheng Lei, held since August 14, foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said authorities took "compulsory measures" against her on suspicion "of criminal activity endangering China's national security".

"The case is still in the process of investigation in accordance with the law," Zhao said, adding that her "legal rights and interests are all receiving full legal protection".

He did not give further details of the allegations against her.

Zhao also said that foreign media must follow national laws, as he confirmed that two Australian journalists who fled the country fearing arrest, had been investigated as part of an unspecified case.

The two Australian foreign correspondents were taken out of China with the help of Australian consular officials after being questioned by the Ministry of State Security, their employers had said on Tuesday.

"As long as foreign journalists obey the law ... they have no reason to worry," Zhao said. The authorities strictly adhered to the law during their investigations, he said.

He also said at a daily press conference in Beijing that China hopes the Australian side can work with China to enhance mutual trust and expand cooperation. (AFP, Reuters)