China accuses US Sec of State of 'pure lies'

China's foreign ministry on Thursday lashed out at comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as "pure lies" after Pompeo warned that China was aggressively attempting to influence state and local governments.

Pompeo made the remarks on Wednesday in the presidential battleground state of Wisconsin.

He warned that sister-city programs, including in Wisconsin, fall under a program that's part of the Chinese government's "overseas propaganda." He called it "not so friendly to American interests."

"Pompeo's remarks, regardless of the facts, are pure lies " said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin. "China firmly opposes this."

Pompeo also cautioned lawmakers that when approached by a Chinese diplomat, "it is likely not in the spirit of true cooperation or friendship."

He urged lawmakers to investigate who is paying for any trip to China they may be offered once COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted.

Asked about Pompeo's comments criticizing China's human rights record, Wang refuted claims, noting racial discrimination issues in the US.