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U.S. Orders China to Close Houston Consulate Over Espionage and Theft – The New York Times

By Thomas A. Smith

WASHINGTON The United States has ordered China to close its diplomatic consulate in Houston by Friday, citing a nationwide pattern of espionage and attempted theft of scientific research by the Chinese military that is aided by diplomats.

The order deals a major blow to the rapidly deteriorating relations between the two nations. China promptly vowed to retaliate, calling the move illegal.

The State Department said in a statement that the closure was in response to repeated Chinese violations of American sovereignty, including massive illegal spying and influence operations.

via www.nytimes.com