BEIJING, Sept. 4 -- China said it hopes the United States and Russia can resolve their rows through dialogue after the United States forced closure of Russian diplomatic missions.
On Saturday, U.S. authorities shut down the Russian Consulate General in San Francisco and the Trade Representation in Washington. Russian representatives were also denied access to the rented premises of the Trade Representation in New York.
As global powers, the United States and Russia shoulder major responsibilities in maintaining world peace, stability and security, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said at a regular news briefing.
"China hopes both countries can resolve their problems through dialogue on an equal footing and on the basis of compliance with international law and mutual respect," Geng said.
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations specify that all countries shall offer convenience to diplomatic missions to perform their functions, the spokesperson said.
Russia on Sunday demanded the United States immediately return the Russian diplomatic facilities seized in the country. The U.S. move was regarded as retaliation for Russia's order that the United States cut its diplomatic staff in Russia by 755 to 455 by Sept. 1.