China on Friday urged the US to immediately revoke its discriminatory visa policy against Chinese journalists and effectively safeguard the lawful rights and interests of these journalists in the country.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry. (Photo: VCG)

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made the remarks during a regular press briefing in Beijing after the US side claimed it would shorten the period foreign journalists are allowed to stay in the country, a move that could affect Chinese reporters.

"Restrictions on people-to-people exchanges do not serve the interests of either side. China firmly opposes the discriminatory measures adopted by the US against specific countries," Lin said.

"China reserves the right to take reciprocal countermeasures," Lin added.

(Compiled by Wang Jingyu)