China’s embassy in New Zealand has lodged a formal complaint with the government in Wellington over the alleged harassment of Chinese citizens at the country’s airports. The embassy claims that security and intelligence agency personnel have subjected Chinese travelers to unwarranted interrogation and confiscated their electronic devices.

According to the embassy, a Chinese citizen who was transiting through a New Zealand airport was questioned without cause and had their personal digital devices seized. Some of the devices have not been returned, the embassy said. This incident is not an isolated case, as the embassy has received reports of several other Chinese citizens experiencing similar harassment during entry or transit in New Zealand.

Beijing has expressed strong displeasure over the alleged harassment, demanding that New Zealand cease such actions immediately. The embassy has filed a formal complaint with New Zealand’s foreign ministry and reserves the right to take further action. In response, Wellington’s foreign ministry has emphasized that all individuals entering the country must comply with its laws and regulations, including those related to national security and border security.

New Zealand’s foreign ministry has assured that these laws and regulations are applied in a non-discriminatory manner, regardless of the individual’s country of origin. The ministry has relayed this information to the Chinese Embassy. Additionally, New Zealand’s intelligence agency has stated that any actions taken would have been in accordance with the law and subject to independent oversight.

The incident highlights the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of all travelers, regardless of their nationality. As diplomatic tensions between countries can have significant implications, it is crucial for governments to ensure that their security measures are proportionate and respectful of individual rights. The situation is being closely monitored, and further developments are expected.