Overseas Chinese citizens told to respect local faiths

BEIJING - Chinese citizens overseas should abide by local laws and regulations, while honoring religious beliefs and customs there, a Foreign Ministry spokesman told a Monday press briefing.

Hong Lei's comments came after a Chinese man working in Pakistan-administered Kashmir was taken into protective custody on Saturday. Hundreds of protesters attacked his company offices after an alleged desecration of the Koran.

"China and Pakistan are friendly neighbors, and we believe the incident will be resolved appropriately through consultation," Hong said.