China on Thursday demanded from Canada and the US the immediate release of Huawei chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, and a clarification of the reasons for detention.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a news conference that China has lodged a solemn representation and expressed its solemn position on the case, asking the two countries to guarantee the legitimate rights and interests of Meng Wanzhou.

The Chinese consulate in Vancouver has provided consular assistance to Meng, Geng said, adding that China urged Canada to guarantee the safety and humanitarian treatment of Chinese citizens and to uphold their rights.