China has denounced CIA messages urging Chinese officials to leak information as a political provocation

China has reacted vehemently to recent messages from the CIA promoting the recruitment of Chinese officials to provide confidential information. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian called the actions a political provocation and a threat to China's national interests. He also accused the US of spying and meddling in internal affairs. Relations between the two countries are strained, with mutual accusations of espionage and cyber attacks.