China criticizes France, Germany presenting award to lawyer

China on Wednesday lodged solemn representation to the French and German sides on their presentation of "human rights award" to Chinese lawyer Yu Wensheng.

In this Feb. 24, 2017 photo, Chinese lawyer Yu Wensheng pauses during an interview at his office in Beijing. [File photo: AP/Andy Wong]

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying expressed strong dissatisfaction with and firm opposition to the two countries' practices at a press briefing.

She said the related cases are purely judicial cases and have nothing to do with human rights.

The two countries' "erroneous practices" are a gross interference with China's internal affairs and judicial sovereignty, Hua said.

"We urge ambassadors of relevant countries to do more things that are conducive to bilateral ties and political mutual trust, instead of the other way round," she said.

The award to Yu was presented by the French and German ambassadors to China at the German embassy.