Chinese urge U.S. rethink over consulate closure

The United States ordered China to close its consulate in Houston, escalating tensions between the world's largest economies as President Donald Trump ramps up pressure against China ahead of the November election.

The physical closure of the consulate marked a dramatic step in increasingly contentious relations that have been strained not only by the conronavirus pandemic but by disputes over trade, human rights, Hong Kong and Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.

There are six Chinese consulates located in the United States along with China's mission to the United Nations.

Speaking to local media in Houston, Chinese Consul General Cai Wei called on the US to provide evidence of wrongdoing.

"So if you say we have done something wrong, give us some evidence. Otherwise we are innocent until you prove that," Cai said.

Beijing denounced the order Wednesday as "outrageous" and said it would draw a firm response if not reversed.