US 'deeply concerned' over new China controls on foreign NGOs

Washington: The United States said it was "deeply concerned" after China passed a controversial new law today giving police wide-ranging powers over overseas charities.

The law, which comes into force in January, "will further narrow space for civil society in China and constrain contact between individuals and organizations in the United States and China," National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said.

The new measure, which prompted an immediate outcry from charities and foreign governments, also bans overseas NGOs from recruiting members or raising funds in China.

"Recognizing that a vibrant civil society is a cornerstone of stability and prosperity, the (Obama) administration has expressed strong support at every level for the role of civil society in China," Price said in a statement.

"We urge China to respect the rights and freedoms of human rights defenders, journalists, business groups, development professionals, and all others who make up civil society, including by protecting the ability of foreign NGOs to operate in China."

There are about 1,000 foreign NGOs in China, ranging from development charities like "Save the Children" to environmentalist groups like "Greenpeace" to university centers and chambers of commerce.